$10.99
Plumbago (also commonly called leadwort) is a wiry, mat-forming perennial which spreads by rhizomes to form an attractive ground cover. Typically grows 6-10″ tall on generally erect stems rising from the rhizomes. Oval to obovate, shiny, medium green leaves (to 2″ long) turn bronze-red in autumn. Terminal clusters of 5-petaled, gentian blue flowers (1/2 to 3/4″ diameter) appear above the foliage over a long summer to frost bloom period. Flowers resemble those of woodland phlox.
Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Somewhat wide range of soil tolerance except for wet, poorly-drained ones. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. May not be reliably winter hardy throughout USDA Zone 5 where it will benefit from a light winter mulch. Spreads by rhizomes and can be somewhat aggressive in optimum growing conditions.
| Common Name | Plumbago |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Ceratostigma plumbaginoides |
| Evergreen or Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Growth Rate | Average |
| Light Requirements | Part-sun, Sun |
| Height | 1 ft. |
| Width | to 1.5 ft. |
| Soil Condition | Well-drained |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Blooming Period | summer to fall |
| Flower Color | blue |
| Fragrance | No |
| Foliage Color | green |
| Deer Resistant | Yes |
| Fall Color | red |
