Blue mistflower
By LYNN ARTZ, DAVID RODDENBERRY, and SANDY TEDDER
The fluffy sky-blue flowers of blue mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum) are eye-catching in fall. This long-blooming native grows 1-3 feet tall with occasional to plentiful branching. At the tops of burgundy stems are flat-topped flower heads with dense clusters of small blue button-like flowers. Long protruding stamens give the flowers a tufty or fuzzy appearance. Their copious nectar attracts many skippers, butterflies, moths, and long-tongued bees. Blue mistflower is a larval host for several moths. Deer and rabbits rarely eat the bitter, triangular leaves. This vigorous perennial prefers moist, humusy soil in full to part sun. It spreads quickly by rhizomes to form large patches. Do not confuse it with the non-native annual ageratum sold as a bedding plant. Blue mistflower is blooming now near the free book box at Sopchoppy Depot Park.
