Botanical Name: Lithodora diffusa ‘Grace Ward’ Common Name: Lithodora Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Mild Climates (USDA Zones 6–9) Size: 6–10" Tall × 18–24" Spread Growth Habit: Low, Spreading, Evergreen Groundcover Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade (Best Bloom in Full Sun) Soil: Well-Drained, Acidic Soil Required Water Needs: Moderate; Consistent Moisture Preferred, Avoid Waterlogging Bloom Season: Mid to Late Spring (Occasional Rebloom) Fertilizer: Minimal; Acid-Loving Fertilizer if Needed Features: Intense Cobalt-Blue Flowers, Evergreen Foliage, Dense Mat-Forming Habit, Deer Resistant Uses: Ground Cover, Rock Gardens, Slopes, Edging, Acidic Soil Gardens

Patent: ❌ Not Patented Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Lithodora ‘Grace Ward’

Lithodora ‘Grace Ward’ is renowned for its electric cobalt-blue flowers, widely regarded as some of the bluest blooms found in the garden. In spring, the plant becomes almost completely covered in star-shaped flowers that contrast dramatically against its deep green, needle-like evergreen foliage.

The plant forms a dense, low-growing mat, making it an excellent choice for slopes, rock gardens, and garden edges where long-lasting structure and seasonal color are desired.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Grace Ward’ has performed best in well-drained, acidic soils with good airflow. When these conditions are met, it is exceptionally long-lived and reliable, maintaining evergreen foliage year-round and delivering a breathtaking spring bloom.

We especially appreciate its use as a specialty groundcover. The intense blue color is unmatched and pairs beautifully with spring bulbs, silver foliage, and low-growing evergreens.

Lithodora ‘Grace Ward’ vs. Other Groundcovers

Compared to creeping phlox, ‘Grace Ward’ offers a much deeper, truer blue flower color and evergreen foliage, though it is more particular about soil conditions.

When compared to blue star creeper, lithodora provides greater visual impact and seasonal drama, making it ideal for focal groundcover plantings. For gardeners with acidic, well-drained soil seeking a low-growing evergreen plant with unparalleled blue flowers, Lithodora ‘Grace Ward’ is a standout choice.