These are super autumn flowering shrubs, suitable for a smaller garden, as most will not spread more than 2m in height. Around 6 species found in Asia, often in dry, open, full sun locations. They appreciate a sheltered spot in the garden and will tolerate frosty conditions better if the shrubby growth is left over winter. This can be pruned down to a framework in late winter, early spring. Foliage is scented, neat, green, with some yellow forms available. Flowers are in attractive, showy clusters, in various shades of blue. New cultivated forms now include flowers of pink and white.
Renowned as one of the most important plants for wildlife from late summer, Caryopteris are usually buzzing with bees and butterflies. The fact that they are drought-tolerant and have scented foliage simply adds to their desirability.