Blue Mistflower
Conoclinium coelestinum
Blue Mistflower is a native perennial wildflower with fluffy blue-violet blooms that attract butterflies and bees. Its late summer to fall flowering makes it valuable for pollinator gardens when many other plants have finished blooming.
Asteraceae (Aster or Daisy family)
Late summer to fall (July-November), with peak blooms August-October
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: white beardtongues and penstemons also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The species name "coelestinum" means "celestial" or "heavenly," referring to the sky-blue color of the flowers. Blue Mistflower creates a misty, celestial effect when planted en masse. Formerly classified as Eupatorium coelestinum, it was reclassified to Conoclinium after genetic analysis. It serves as both nectar source and host plant for several moth species.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (best flowering in sun, tolerates more shade than most fall bloomers)
Water
Prefers consistently moist soil but adapts to moderately dry conditions once established; tolerates short periods of wet soil
Soil
Moist, Fertile, Loamy, Sandy, Clay, Adaptable
Expert Growing Tips
Cut back in spring to prevent flopping and encourage bushier growth
Chelsea chop (cut top 1/3 off in early summer) for shorter, sturdier plants
Spreads by rhizomes and self-seeding; may become aggressive in ideal conditions
Remove spent flower heads to prevent excessive self-seeding
Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor and control spread
Pairs beautifully with yellow-flowered species
Deer and rabbit resistant
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Pollinator and butterfly gardens
- Native wildflower meadows
- Perennial borders and mixed beds
- Rain gardens and moist areas
- Naturalizing in informal areas
- Ground cover in larger spaces
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Mistflower
Does Blue Mistflower spread quickly?
Yes, Blue Mistflower spreads by rhizomes and self-seeding, and can become aggressive in ideal growing conditions. It is best planted in naturalized areas or where it has room to spread, and may need management in formal gardens.
Is Blue Mistflower good for butterflies?
Yes, Blue Mistflower is excellent for butterflies and is especially attractive to Monarchs, Swallowtails, and many other butterfly species. It blooms in late summer and fall when butterflies need nectar for migration.
What is the difference between Blue Mistflower and ageratum?
Blue Mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum) is a native perennial hardy in zones 5-10, while annual ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum) is a tropical plant. Blue Mistflower is called "hardy ageratum" because they look similar but it is cold-hardy and perennial.
When should I cut back Blue Mistflower?
Cut back Blue Mistflower in spring before new growth emerges, or give it a Chelsea chop in early summer by cutting the top third off to encourage bushier, shorter growth and prevent flopping.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
White Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis
White Beardtongue is a showy native perennial with spikes of white tubular flowers accented by purple nectar guides. Its long blooming period and adaptability make it perfect for pollinator gardens and sustainable landscapes.
Penstemon
Penstemon spp.
Penstemon, commonly called Beardtongue, produces spikes of tubular flowers beloved by hummingbirds. These hardy perennials symbolize courage, spiritual strength, and the rugged beauty of the American West.
Western Spiderwort
Tradescantia occidentalis
Western Spiderwort is a vigorous prairie perennial with striking blue-violet three-petaled flowers accented by golden stamens. Each delicate bloom lasts only a day, but plants produce flowers in succession throughout summer.