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Public Plant Profile

Dark Knight Caryopteris

Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Dark Knight'

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Caryopteris

Dark Knight Caryopteris offers stunning blue flowers and aromatic foliage, perfect for pollinator gardens.

Mature Height: 2-3 feet
Mature Width: 2-3 feet
Bloom Color: Blue
Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall
Light: Sun
Zone: Zones 5-9
Maintenance: Low
Growth Rate: Moderate
Season of Interest: Summer
Foliage: Deciduous
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Dark Knight Caryopteris is a compact, deciduous shrub known for its striking blue flowers and aromatic foliage. It attracts pollinators and provides excellent late summer color.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerates drought once established.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil with moderate moisture; adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Watering Needs

Water regularly during dry spells, allowing soil to dry between sessions.

Pruning Notes

Prune back in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize sparingly; a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient.

Common Issues

May face issues with powdery mildew and occasional pests like spider mites.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

borderpollinator gardenaccent

Special Features

Attractive blue flowersaromatic foliage

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides nectar.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding color in late summer. Works well in mixed borders.

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Use this page to get a feel for where Dark Knight Caryopteris may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Is Dark Knight Caryopteris a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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