Caryopteris divaricata Electrum

Caryopteris divaricata 'Electrum', also known as Bluebeard, is a different species from other Caryopteris. The perennial bushy and compact tuft of foliage is variegated with cream. In late summer and autumn, it is covered with small infinitely precious blue flowers, topped with large curved stamens. Their white throat speckled with blue must be admired up close. Original, rare, very cold-resistant, this plant loves wild borders and sometimes thrives where least expected, in heavy soil.

Caryopteris divaricata is a recently renamed species, Tripora divaricata, and has been moved from the Verbenaceae family to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to East Asia, Japan or Nepal. 'Electrum' has a compact habit, forming a completely deciduous herbaceous tuft, 80cm (31.5in) tall, with a spread of 60cm (23.6in). Its foliage, very bright, consists of thin opposite and dentate leaves, variegated with almond green, cream, and white. It is carried by thin and slender stems. Flowering begins at the end of August and continues into September-October, consistently. The axillary flowers measure only 1 to 2cm (0.4 to 0.8in) and are densely clustered on peduncles. They are a pale blue, barely tinged with mauve, on the upper petals, and ultramarine blue on the lower, highly developed lobe. Their throat is lighter, speckled with a more intense blue-violet. Pure white stamens emerge gracefully from the heart of the flower, longer than it, and are gracefully arched towards the ground.

Caryopteris divaricata 'Electrum' is both very beautiful and very elegant. It is not a plant that will overshadow its neighbours; it likes to blend in. It brings lightness mixed with sensuality to the garden. Its variegated foliage will nicely enhance matte or dark greens in a large sunny or semi-shady border. It is an ideal plant for country gardens, cottage gardens, and natural gardens. It belongs to the strong and durable perennials, like Verbena bonariensis, Trachystemon orientalis, Symphytum 'Hidcote Blue', or even the marshmallow Althaea officinalis. It will also make a beautiful container on the terrace or balcony, allowing for a close-up view of its subtle flowering. It appreciates sun or semi-shade and soil that is not too dry in summer.