Plumbago Growth and Care Guide

Want to add a touch of elegance and color to your garden? Plumbago, also known as Leadwort, is a versatile plant known for its striking clusters of sky-blue or white flowers. Whether used as a shrub, ground cover, or in containers, plumbago brings year-round beauty to your outdoor space.

Ready to brighten up your garden? Purchase Plumbago plants online today and experience their timeless charm!

Introduction to Plumbago

Plumbago is a genus of flowering plants in the family Plumbaginaceae, prized for its vivid flowers and adaptability. Native to South Africa, Plumbago auriculata (commonly known as Cape Leadwort and Cape Plumbago) is one of the most popular species, thriving in warm climates and full sun. Its blooms in white and baby blue can reach 12-24 inches as an annual in frost prone areas, but may sprawl up to 8-12 feet in warm regions. There is another white blooming native plumbago, Plumbago zeylanica, but it is not commonly propagated or found in local Garden Centers. Similarly, Plumbago scandens, C. willmottanium (Chinese Plumbago) Plumbago indica (Scarlet Plumbago (poisonous) & P. coccinea and P. rosea) and other miscellaneous varieties of Plumbago are not commonly found at local Garden Centers and will not be discussed herein.

Other species, like Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (Hardy Plumbago), are found regularly at local Garden Centers and this species is excellent for cooler regions. This plant is beloved for its cascading growth, making it perfect for hedges, trellises, and hanging baskets. Plumbago flowers attract butterflies and bees, while its semi-evergreen foliage ensures a lush garden appearance year-round.

Perennial plumbago paired with Issaii Beautyberry has been one of my favorite combinations for years. I add a little extra iron to make sure that my Ceratostigma plumbaginoides foliage takes on a bright red hue in the fall season to put the umph into my color combination.

As for annual plumbago auriculata, I use both the “alba” white and the original baby blue for height in my annual containers. It is stunning when planted in mass, and I can’t wait to experiment with it this year.

Characteristics of Plumbago

Annual Plumbago auriculata can grow as an annual upright in cold zones, or as a sprawling shrub that can be adapted as a climber or ground cover, in frost free zones, making it ideal for various garden settings. Its fast growth rate and adaptability allow it to thrive in challenging environments, including coastal regions. Plumbago’s flowers bloom in clusters, typically in shades of blue or white. The blooms appear from spring through fall, creating a continuous display of color that enhances any landscape.

Perennial plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides) blooms in vivid blue in late summer and fall. The star shaped blue blooms contrasting against the deep green foliage serves as the perfect accent, enhancing the vibrant hues of the blooms.

Size and Growth Habit

Plumbago exhibits diverse growth habits depending on the variety, making it a versatile choice for gardens.

Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata) that grows in both baby blue and alba (white) blooming colors can grow as either as an annual upright from 8” to 2’ in Zones 5-8, or in frost-free zones as a sprawling groundcover, shrub or a climbing vine, reaching heights of 3–10 feet and spreading up to 8 feet wide.
Hardy Plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides) is a low-growing ground cover, forming a dense mat at 6–12 inches tall and spreading up to 18 inches in Zones 5-9.

Both types of Plumbago are vigorous growers, thriving in sunny locations and in afternoon shade locations. They add vibrant color with their blooms while providing structure and texture to the landscape.

Leaves and Flowers

Plumbago auriculata’s foliage is both functional and ornamental, offering a lush and vibrant backdrop for its stunning blooms. The lance-shaped leaves are smooth and medium to light green, with a subtle gloss that reflects light and enhances the plant's overall appearance. The dense greenery creates a striking contrast to the plant's colorful flowers, making it an excellent choice for borders, hedges, or trellises.

The flowers of Plumbago auriculata are the standout feature, consisting of Phlox-like blooms grouped in rounded clusters, called umbels. These clusters create a full and dramatic display, with shades of pale sky blue and pure white, depending on the variety. The blooms are lightly fragrant, adding a sensory dimension to their visual beauty. These nectar-rich flowers are a magnet for pollinators, attracting butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects to the garden. The long-lasting blooms appear from spring through fall, providing consistent color and interest over an extended growing season. Whether planted as an upright annual, climbing vine, shrub, or ground cover, plumbago’s combination of foliage and flowers makes it a versatile and captivating addition to any garden.

The leaves and flowers of the perennial Cerastigma plumbaginoides, provide a great contrast. The leaves of this plant are oval and medium to dark green, about 2 inches long. They transition to a striking bronzy-red or purple in the fall, adding a lovely contrast to the overall plant. The flowers are a ¾ inch rich gentian blue arranged in terminal heads above the foliage. Bloom appear from mid-summer to late-fall, offering a long-lasting display that brightens up the garden.

Is Plumbago Annual or Perennial?

Plumbago auriuculata is an annual in most Zones but a tender perennial that thrives in USDA Zones 9–11, where it enjoys the warm temperatures and mild winters these regions offer. It may survive the milder winters in Zone 8 if well mulched. In these zones, the plant can remain evergreen or semi-evergreen, depending on the specific climate and growing conditions. It performs exceptionally well in sunny locations with well-draining soil, making it a reliable and long-lasting addition to gardens in warmer climates. For Zone 8B, plumbago generally returns year after year, provided it is given proper care and some protection during periods of extreme cold. Mulching around the base of the plant in late fall helps insulate its roots from frost, ensuring it can regrow robustly in spring.

In colder regions outside its hardiness range, Plumbago auriculata can be grown as an annual, providing a season of lush foliage and vibrant blooms before the first frost. Alternatively, gardeners can pot plumbago plants and bring them indoors during winter, where they can continue to thrive in a bright, sunny location. When overwintered indoors, reducing watering and maintaining good airflow around the plant prevents issues like root rot and fungal diseases. This adaptability allows plumbago to be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from permanent landscaping in warm zones to portable displays in cooler climates. Whether treated as a perennial or annual, plumbago rewards gardeners with its resilience and beauty when provided with the right care.

Hardy Plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides) is a perennial in Zones 5-9. In Zones 7-9, this plant can provide some amazing fall foliage color, with red hues. These hues can be heightened by adding a small dosage of iron a month before the average first frost.

Best Varieties of Plumbago Tested

Best Variety #1: Blue Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata)

This variety is celebrated for its vibrant sky-blue flowers and fast-growing habit, making it ideal for hedges or trellises. There are patented hybrids such as Royal Cape and Imperial Blue but let’s be honest here … they are too alike to tell much difference.

Best Variety #2: White Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata ‘Alba’)

Perfect for those seeking a more understated yet elegant bloom, featuring clusters of pristine white flowers. The Plumbago auriculata ‘Alba’ is white. There are other species including the native variety Plumbago zeylanica that also blooms in white, but not as floriferous as Plumbago auriculata alba.

Best Variety #3: Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (Hardy Plumbago)

This groundcover with small, gentian-blue flowers provides fall interest. It blooms late summer through fall. The cooler weather can bring added interest when the foliage takes on an autumnal hue.

How to Grow & Care for Plumbago

Annual Plumbago, with its clusters of sky-blue and white flowers, thrives in warm climates and full sun, making it an ideal choice for bright, open spaces. This low-maintenance plant prefers well-drained soil and benefits from moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. With regular pruning to encourage new blooms and prevent overgrowth, Plumbago rewards gardeners with continuous color and lush growth throughout the growing season.

Perennial Plumbago, though not as popular as its annual relative, is a very low maintenance plant, requiring little water and no pruning.

Planting

Plant annual Plumbago auriculata in the spring after the threat of frost has passed. These plants work well as upright thrillers and fillers in a crowded group, so plant them 4-6” apart or close to other accompanying plants.

Plant perennial plumbago in spring or early fall to establish its root system before extreme weather. Avoid heavy shade or waterlogged areas, as these conditions can hinder growth and flowering. Space plants 2–3 feet apart to ensure proper air circulation, minimize disease risk, and allow room for their natural spread.

Sunlight Requirements

Annual plumbago thrives in full sun, where it produces the most vibrant blooms and grows vigorously. It can tolerate partial shade, but reduced sunlight often results in fewer flowers and slower growth.

For perennial plumbago, choose a sunny location with 6–8 hours of sunlight daily, providing afternoon shade in hotter climates to prevent heat stress. Heat stress will appear as browning along the edges of the foliage.

Soil Requirements

The annual and perennial versions of this plant prefer well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to boost fertility. While they can tolerate a wide pH range, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.5) supports optimal nutrient absorption. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils, as plumbago is susceptible to root rot in poorly drained conditions.

Watering Needs

Annual plumbago will need to be watered when the top 1-2” of the soil dry. Annual plumbago is not fussy when it comes to water so water it in accordance with the weakest link in the plant combination. If it is subject to drought, annual plumbago will not suffer from yellowing of foliage or loss of blooms like many other annuals.

Water perennial plumbago regularly during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant and requires watering only during extended dry periods. Allow the soil to dry between waterings to avoid overwatering, especially in areas with clay soil. Note that clay soil should always be amended with nutrient rich compost or soil conditioner. If subject to drought, lower leaves may yellow and luckily will drop without need to hand remove them.

Fertilizer Needs

Annual plumbago requires regular fertilizer to keep it flowering. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth as the plant emerges from dormancy. During peak flowering periods, use a high-phosphorus bloom booster to encourage more vibrant and prolonged blooms.

Perennial plumbago is not a heavy feeder so avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nutrients can lead to weak, leggy growth at the expense of flowers. Annual feeding with a slow release fertilizer in spring is best. To promote a greater contract in fall foliage, add an iron supplement one month before your annual first frost date. This promotes reddening of the foliage.

Pruning & Deadheading

For Plumbago auriculata, prune lightly throughout the growing season to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems. This plant is self-cleaning so spent blooms will drop. However, deep pruning once every 3 weeks of a single spent flower stem encourages continued blooming. Prune stems back to the plant's base. Absent regular pruning, cut back plant to half size in mid-summer to promote bushiness and bloom vigor.

For perennial Plumbago, this plant is quite low-maintenance and will continue to bloom without regular deadheading or pruning. However, removing spent flowers can help maintain a tidy appearance and may encourage a slightly longer blooming period. So, while it's not required, it can be beneficial for aesthetic reasons.

Overwintering

In USDA Zones 8b–11, annual plumbago can survive outdoors with minimal protection, though mulching the base in late fall helps shield the roots from frost. In colder zones, potted annual plumbago should be moved indoors to a bright, frost-free location, such as a sunroom or heated greenhouse. Water sparingly during winter to mimic dormancy and prevent overwatering.

For Cerostigma Plumbaginoides, this plant is perennial in Zones 5-9. This plant is a herbaceous perennial so cut it to the ground after the first killing frost, and apply a thick layer or mulch. Pull back the mulch 15-30 days before your last expected frost date

Common Pests

Plumbago does not tend to have many bug problems. Annual plumbago may be susceptible to Spider Mites. Often present in hot, dry conditions, spider mites cause tiny yellow or white speckles on foliage. Apply neem oil to affected areas, ensuring thorough coverage under the leaves. Repeat treatment weekly if infestations persist.

For Perennial Plumbago, watch for issues with Aphids. These sap-sucking insects leave behind sticky honeydew, which attracts ants and fosters sooty mold. Use insecticidal soap for immediate control and neem oil for long-term prevention. Aphid populations can increase rapidly, so reapply treatments within 7 days to disrupt their lifecycle. Similarly, white fly may also be an issue in the late season with Ceratostigma plumbaginoides. These pests can be controlled with Neem Oil.

Common Diseases

Neither annual nor perennial plumbago are plagued by diseases. However, root rot can be a problem where plants are overwatered and/or not planted in well draining soil. Ensure the plants are placed in well-amended soil and avoid waterlogging, particularly during cooler months.

Common Mistakes

Planting in Too Much Shade: This often leads to fewer blooms with annual plumbago and slower overall growth. However, in Southern climates, the perennial plumbago appreciates afternoon shade.
Overwatering: Excess moisture can cause root rot
Neglecting Pruning: Without annual pruning, annual plumbago can become leggy and overgrown, reducing its aesthetic appeal and blooming potential.

Common Misconceptions

“Plumbago only grows in warm climates.” While Plumbago auriculata thrives in USDA Zones 8–11, it can be used as an annual in colder zones. Hardy Plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides) is a herbaceous perennial in colder regions, tolerating frost and snow.
“Plumbago is invasive.” While plumbago spreads readily, especially in warmer climates, regular pruning and proper placement make it easy to control in most garden settings.

Using Plumbago in the Garden

Plumbago is a versatile plant that adds a soft, airy touch to any garden with its delicate striking blooms. It works beautifully as a flowering hedge in warmer regions. It is a fantastic upright annual thriller in cooler regions. The Hardy Plumbago is a useful ground cover, or trailing plant with a late summer and fall blooming habit. Pair it with other sun-loving perennials or use it to fill large spaces, where its sprawling habit and vibrant flowers can make a bold, eye-catching statement.

Hedging and Screening

In Zones 9-11, Blue plumbago (Plumbago auriculata) is a popular choice for informal hedges and screens due to its sprawling growth habit and dense, soft green foliage. It can grow up to 10 feet tall in warmer zones, forming a lush, natural barrier that provides privacy while adding vibrant beauty to outdoor spaces. The plant’s clusters of sky-blue or white flowers create a softening effect, offering seasonal interest almost all year long in warmer climates.

Its fast growth makes it ideal for quickly filling in gaps along fences or property lines, while its adaptability to pruning allows gardeners to shape it to their desired height and width. Unlike more formal hedges, plumbago thrives with minimal maintenance, requiring only occasional trimming to maintain its shape. This makes it an excellent option for those seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking solution for hedging or screening.

Ground Cover

Hardy plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides) is an exceptional ground cover, spreading by underground roots. It is perfect for stabilizing slopes, edging pathways, or filling gaps in flower beds. Growing only 6-12 inches tall, it grows outward versus upward, forming a dense mat of green foliage that transitions to stunning bronze or reddish hues in fall, adding seasonal charm. The plant’s vibrant blue, star-shaped flowers appear from mid-summer to late-fall, creating a striking contrast against its foliage.

Its spreading nature makes it an excellent choice for erosion control on slopes, while its drought tolerance ensures it thrives in challenging conditions. Hardy plumbago’s ability to suppress weeds and blend seamlessly with other plants makes it a favorite for mixed perennial borders. Whether used to soften the edges of a garden or as a colorful ground cover, it brings texture, color, and functionality to any landscape.

Container Gardening

Annual Plumbago thrives in containers, making it a versatile option for patios, balconies, or smaller garden spaces. Its prolific blooms bring vibrant color and lush greenery to pots, hanging baskets, or decorative containers. Blue or white annual plumbago work well as a standalone plant in larger pots, where its flowers and sprawling stems can shine, or as part of a mixed arrangement with trailing or upright plants.

Its adaptability to various climates allows gardeners in colder regions to grow plumbago in portable containers, which can be moved indoors for overwintering. For smaller spaces, such as balconies, plumbago’s umbel blooms create a striking focal point, adding both height and texture. With proper care, including regular watering and feeding, container-grown plumbago delivers continuous beauty and charm throughout the growing season.

Heat-Loving Plumbago Shines Bright

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