Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (3.5 inch pot)

Product Description

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (3.5-inch pot)
Common Name: Plumbago, Leadwort

A groundcover that provides interest in late summer, after many other perennials are finished blooming, Leadwort is hard to beat. The foliage is green during the summer, then turns a beautiful bronzy-red in fall. It provides the perfect backdrop for the brilliant gentian blue blooms which are present from late summer until the first hard frost.

Use Leadwort as an underplanting to shrubs or large perennials or allow it to ramble over small rocks. Any way you use it, Leadwort will be a dependable, long-lived perennial.

This versatile groundcover will grow in either full sun or part shade. Plants will perform better in partial shade in southern climates. Afternoon shade will result in more open plants that spread more freely. This plant is great for hot, dry places, but could use some water when really hot.

Leadwort goes completely dormant in the winter, and tends to leaf out late in the spring once it warms up, so be careful to remember where you have planted it. Planting before midsummer is highly recommended. Any divisions should be made in spring. Winter mulch in zone 5 is also recommended.

Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit -- 1993
Missouri Botanical Garden Plants of Merit
Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Gold Medal Plant -- 2018

Height: 8.0-12.0 Inches
Spread: 10.0-20.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: Blue shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun) - Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Average Water Needs
Poor to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Late Summer - Mid Fall
Attracts Butterflies
Deer Resistant
Growth Rate: Medium

Border Plant, Ground Cover

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides, commonly known as Hardy Plumbago or Leadwort, is a fantastic groundcover plant that offers beautiful blue flowers and vibrant fall foliage. Here's a closer look at this versatile perennial:

Appearance:

• Flowers: Hardy Plumbago produces clusters of brilliant, true-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to fall. The flowers resemble those of phlox and create a stunning display against the foliage.
• Foliage: The leaves are oval-shaped, medium green, and glossy. In autumn, the foliage transforms into striking shades of bronze-red, adding another layer of interest to the garden.

Growth Habit:

• This plant typically grows 6-10 inches tall and spreads by rhizomes to form a dense, weed-suppressing mat. It's a vigorous grower but not considered invasive.

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Hardy Plumbago thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a location with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day but appreciates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
• Soil: This plant is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay, as long as the soil is well-drained. It prefers average to medium moisture but can tolerate some drought once established.
• Hardiness: Hardy Plumbago is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9, making it suitable for various climates.

Special Features:

• True-Blue Flowers: The intense blue flowers of Hardy Plumbago are a standout feature, providing a vibrant splash of color in the late summer garden.
• Fall Foliage: The bronze-red fall foliage adds another season of interest, extending the plant's ornamental value.
• Groundcover: Its spreading habit makes it an excellent groundcover, helping to suppress weeds and prevent erosion.
• Adaptable: Hardy Plumbago is adaptable to various soil and light conditions, making it a versatile choice for gardeners.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, this plant is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care.

Uses in the Garden:

• Groundcover: Hardy Plumbago is ideal for use as a groundcover in sunny to partially shaded areas, creating a dense and colorful carpet.
• Borders: It can be used to edge borders or pathways, adding a touch of late-season color.
• Rock Gardens: Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for rock gardens, where it can spill over rocks and add a touch of softness.
• Underplanting: Hardy Plumbago can be used to underplant shrubs or roses, filling in the gaps and adding color.
• Containers: It can also be grown in containers, allowing you to enjoy its beauty on patios or balconies.

Tips for Growing Ceratostigma plumbaginoides:

• Planting: Plant in spring or fall in a sunny to partially shaded location with well-drained soil. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve its fertility and drainage.
• Watering: Water regularly during the first year to help the plant establish a strong root system. Once established, it's relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
• Fertilizing: Hardy Plumbago doesn't require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring is usually sufficient.
• Dividing: Divide clumps every few years in spring or fall to rejuvenate plants and maintain their vigor.

Overall, Ceratostigma plumbaginoides, or Hardy Plumbago, is a fantastic groundcover plant that offers beautiful blue flowers, vibrant fall foliage, and adaptability to various growing conditions. Its low maintenance requirements and versatility make it a valuable addition to any garden.

Click here for more ordering and shipping information.