Plumbago

Plumbago, a low-maintenance shrub, boasting vibrant blue flowers from spring to fall. While it may require protection in severe winters in the Florida Panhandle, it typically regenerates in early spring. Whether as a focal point or in clusters, Plumbago adds brightness to any outdoor setting. Although Plumbago auriculata isn’t native, it’s considered Florida-Friendly. The white variety (alba) is widely available in Florida nurseries, and discovering the native white species, Plumbago zeylanica, is a fortunate find for pollinator gardens, as it hosts Cassius Blue Butterfly larvae. Regardless of the type, incorporating Plumbago into your landscape is always a wise decision.

plumbago

General Description

Scientific Name: Plumbago auriculata 

Common Names: Plumbago, Cape Plumbago, Sky Flower, Leadwort

Native Range: Africa

Plant Type: Herbaceous Shrub

Zones: 9 – 11 (Perennial)

Flower Color: Blue or White 

Mature Height: 6 – 10 ft in warmer climates, in the Florida Panhandle you can expect 4 – 6 ft average, as it is a tender perennial in harsh winters. 

Mature Width: 6 – 8 ft 

Growth Rate: Moderate

Plant Traits:

  • Tender Perennial (Zone 8) 
  • True blue flowers
  • Florida Friendly
  • Pollinator Friendly
  • Drought Tolerant

General Care & Cultural Requirements

Light: Full to Part Sun 

Soil Tolerances: clay – sandy loam; slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils

Salt Tolerance: not well known

Drought Tolerance: High (once established)

Heat Tolerance: Good – High

Recommended Spacing: 36-60″

Trimming: Anytime during growing season to maintain shape.  Prune frost damage in early spring to the point of green growth. 

Watering: Water regularly during establishment.  Drought tolerant once established, but can tolerate regular watering in well-draining soil

Fertilizing: Well balanced slow release fertilizer in spring to encourage growth and blooms

Recommended Planting Season: Spring – Summer

Uses in the Landscape

  • Hedges
  • Mass Plantings
  • Specimen Planting
  • Container Gardens / Planters
  • Florida-Friendly ™ Landscapes

Pests & Diseases

Scale, mites, and thrips may become an issue 

Sources