Plumbago is a plant renowned for its stunning blue flowers and attractive foliage. Plumbago is known for its long blooming period, which typically lasts from late spring to fall, depending on the climate. During this time, the plant is covered in an abundance of flowers that attract pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, adding a touch of liveliness to any garden.
There are both perennial and annual species of Plumbago and the only thing they have in common is their blue bloom. The Perennial species is Ceratostigma plumbaginoides, also known as Leadwort, and is native to China. The annual variety is Plumbago auriculata and less commonly known as Skyflower, and is a flowering plant native to South Africa.
Our Selection of Plumbago
At Martin Garden Center, we feature 4″, 6″, 1-gallon and often 2-gallon annual plumbago in both beautiful baby blue and white blooms. We have only 2 vendors who supply our annual plumbago so our consistency in stocking fluctuates based on their availability. We start carrying annual plumbago in mid-April ish. We typically carry Plumbago through Mother’s Day (Mid May) and after that, our supply is hit or miss.
We are growing the following varieties in 2025:
How to Grow and Care For Plumbago
Cultivating Plumbago starts with choosing the right location; choose a spot that receives full sunlight for most of the day. While it can tolerate partial shade, optimal flowering occurs in full sun. Well-drained soil is essential for Plumbago, as it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost, enhances drainage and provides vital nutrients for robust growth.
The best time to plant Plumbago is in the spring or early summer when the soil has warmed up. Before planting, loosen the soil and incorporate organic matter to improve. Next, dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide and place the plant in the hole. Thoroughly fill it with soil and water. Ensure proper spacing between multiple plants, allowing for adequate air circulation.
Plumbago is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is essential during the initial stages of growth. Water the plant deeply, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Once established, Plumbago is relatively low-maintenance in terms of watering. However, supplemental irrigation can encourage continuous flowering during prolonged dry periods and prevent the plant from becoming stressed.
Plumbago benefits from regular feeding during the growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to provide the plant with essential nutrients. A well-balanced fertilizer supports healthy growth and abundant blooms. Oddly, Plumbago tends to suffer from overwatering and the foliage tends to fade to a yellowy green color, which is very unattractive. Slow down on the watering. Water only when the soil is dry and add a slow-release fertilizer to increase the nitrogen.
Pruning is a key aspect of caring for Plumbago, as it helps shape the plant and encourages continuous flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove dead or leggy stems and shape the plant to achieve the desired form. Plumbago responds well to pruning and can be trained as a shrub or allowed to sprawl as ground cover.
Plumbago can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division. Seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown in the spring. Cuttings from healthy stems can be rooted in a well-draining potting mix. Division is another option, particularly for established plants that have developed multiple stems. Dividing the plant in early spring allows you to create new plants and rejuvenate the existing ones.
Leaves and Flowers
Plumbago features glossy, dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and arranged in an alternating pattern along its stems. The leaves are known for their distinctive ear-like shape, which gives the plant its specific epithet, “auriculata.” The leaves add an elegant touch to the plant’s overall appearance and provide a lush backdrop for the vibrant flowers.
Plumbago produces clusters of mesmerizing, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of blue, ranging from light sky blue to deep cobalt blue. The flowers have five petals that curl backward, revealing their delicate stamens in the center. The flowers are typically about one inch in size and are borne on slender, wiry stems that rise above the foliage. Although blue is the most common color, Plumbago flowers can also be found in white or pink varieties.
Uses in the Garden
Plumbago’s ability to produce abundant flowers throughout the growing season ensures a continuous burst of color, attracting the admiration of gardeners and visitors alike. Its vibrant blooms can be used to add a touch of elegance to flower beds, borders, and mixed perennial gardens. Whether planted as a standalone specimen or combined with other flowering plants, Plumbago creates a visually appealing display that enhances the overall aesthetics of the outdoor space.
Plumbago’s sprawling growth habit and the ability to form dense mounds make it an excellent choice for ground cover. Its ability to adapt to various soil conditions and provide coverage in areas where other plants might struggle makes it a valuable asset for functional and aesthetic purposes.
Plumbago’s versatility extends to container gardening, allowing gardeners to enjoy its beauty on patios, balconies, or even as a hanging basket plant. The cascading stems and vibrant blue flowers create an attractive display in containers, bringing color and life to small outdoor spaces. Additionally, Plumbago can climb trellises or arbors, adding a vertical element to the garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plumbago a Perennial?
Martin Garden Center does grow and carry perennial Plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides), also known as leadwort. This also provides a beautiful blue flower, but has a shorter blooming time the late summer and early fall. This herbaceous perennial’s leaves turn a stunning red in autumn.
When Does Plumbago Bloom?
Annual Plumbago typically blooms from late spring through fall, with its peak flowering period occurring during the warmer months. However, the exact timing of blooming can vary based on climate, geographic location, and local growing conditions.
Does Plumbago Need Full Sun?
Plumbago produces the best flowering display when grown in full sunlight. For optimal growth and prolific blooming, planting Plumbago in a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day is recommended.
Is Plumbago Deer Resistant?
Plumbago is deer resistant. While no plant is completely deer-proof, deer generally avoid plants with strong or toxic scents, or fuzzy leaves like Plumbago.