
Images Depict Mature Plants
Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris
Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris (Caryopteris x clandonensis 'CT-9-12'), also known as bluebeard or blue mist shrub, is a striking late-summer bloomer that brings rich, deep blue flowers and glossy dark green foliage to the garden just when color is most needed. This compact deciduous shrub reaches about 2 to 2.5 feet tall and wide, making it perfect for small gardens, perennial borders, and pollinator plantings. From late summer through early fall, Beyond Midnight® produces clusters of vivid blue flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.
This heat-tolerant, drought-resistant shrub thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for xeriscapes, foundation beds, and low-maintenance borders. Its tidy mounded habit requires minimal pruning, and it pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses, coneflowers, and other sun-loving perennials. Unlike older Caryopteris varieties, Beyond Midnight® features exceptionally dark, glossy foliage that provides dramatic contrast with its electric blue blooms, adding bold texture and color to the late-season landscape.
Gardeners will appreciate Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris not only for its beauty and pollinator value but also for its durability and ease of care. Deer-resistant and tolerant of dry conditions once established, this Proven Winners® selection is ideal for eco-friendly gardens and water-wise landscapes. Whether planted as a border accent, in mixed containers, or in mass for a bold blue display, Beyond Midnight® delivers long-lasting, low-maintenance color that keeps your garden glowing well into fall.

Hardiness Zone: | 5-9 |
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Mature Height: | 2-2.5 feet |
Mature Width: | 2-3 feet |
Classification: | Shrub |
Sunlight: | Full Sun |
Habit: | Forms a mound |
Flower Color: | Blue |
Flowering Season: | July through Early September |
Foliage: | Blue-green fragrant foliage |
Soil Condition: | Prefers dry, average to sandy soil |
Water Requirements: | Water well until established |
Uses: | Extremely attractive when used as a focal point in the mixed border, mass planting; attracts pollinators |
How to Care for Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris
Be sure to read our planting instructions to ensure a healthy and happy Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris plant for years to come!
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How Do I Plant my Beyond Midnight Caryopteris Shrubs?
To plant your Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris shrubs, choose a sunny location with well-drained soil, as this drought-tolerant shrub thrives in full sun and dry conditions. Begin by digging a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the shrub’s root ball. Gently remove the plant from its container, loosen the roots, and place it in the hole so the top of the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with native soil, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets, and water thoroughly to help settle the plant in place. Proper spacing—about 2 to 3 feet apart—is important to allow for full growth and airflow. After planting, apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping the mulch a few inches away from the crown to avoid rot. Beyond Midnight Caryopteris doesn’t like soggy soil, so avoid low-lying areas that retain water. This low-maintenance shrub is ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and drought-tolerant landscapes. With the right site and soil prep, your Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris will quickly establish and reward you with late-season blooms and rich, glossy foliage that adds depth and vibrancy to your landscape.
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How Do I Water my Beyond Midnight Caryopteris Shrubs?
Watering your Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris shrubs correctly is key to establishing strong roots and long-term success in the landscape. During the first growing season, water deeply once or twice per week to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. A slow, thorough watering helps encourage deep root growth, which is especially important in hot, sunny locations where this drought-tolerant shrub thrives. Apply water at the base of the plant early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce the risk of disease. Once established, Beyond Midnight Caryopteris becomes very drought tolerant and typically only needs supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells. Overwatering or consistently wet soil can lead to root rot, so it's best to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Mulching around the base with 2–3 inches of organic mulch helps conserve moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. With the right watering routine, this resilient bluebeard shrub will continue to produce vibrant blue blooms and maintain its glossy dark foliage throughout the late summer and fall.
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How Should I Fertilize my Beyond Midnight Caryopteris Shrubs?
Fertilizing your Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris shrubs helps promote lush foliage and vibrant late-summer blooms. In early spring, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 formula, around the base of the plant, avoiding direct contact with the stems. This provides essential nutrients as the shrub breaks dormancy and begins new growth. For gardeners who prefer organic options, compost or a well-balanced organic fertilizer designed for flowering shrubs can also be used. Water the area thoroughly after feeding to help nutrients reach the root zone. Beyond Midnight Caryopteris is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant shrub that doesn’t require heavy feeding, so one application per year is usually sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers. In poor or sandy soils, a second light application of fertilizer in mid-summer can support extended blooming. With the right fertilization routine, your Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris will flourish in sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and low-water landscapes, delivering deep blue color and healthy, glossy foliage well into the fall season.

How and When should I Prune my Beyond Midnight Caryopteris Shrubs?
You should prune your Beyond Midnight® Caryopteris shrubs in early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. Because Caryopteris blooms on new wood, pruning in spring encourages vigorous branching and maximizes the number of late-summer flower clusters. Cut back the previous year’s growth to about 6 to 12 inches from the ground, using clean, sharp pruning shears. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to promote healthy structure and airflow. This annual hard pruning helps maintain the shrub’s compact shape and encourages a flush of fresh, flower-producing stems. Avoid pruning Beyond Midnight Caryopteris in late summer or fall, as this can remove developing buds and make the plant more vulnerable to cold weather damage. During the growing season, light trimming can be done to shape the plant or remove spent flower heads, though it’s not necessary for bloom performance. Regular spring pruning not only controls size and enhances appearance, but also revitalizes the plant for a season full of deep blue blooms and lush, glossy foliage. With proper pruning, this low-maintenance shrub will thrive in sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and drought-tolerant landscapes.