A sprawling, scrambling shrub awash with phlox-like sky-blue flower clusters from summer to autumn. Drought-hardy and butterfly-friendly, it makes a soft informal hedge or bank cover in warm climates.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 2 m H × 2.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Plumbago
Botanically, Plumbago auriculata is a fast-growing shrub in the Plumbaginaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 2.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Blue flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Plumbago
Plumbago suits subtropical, warm-temperate and tropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Plumbago does best in free-draining, sandy and loamy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 1.5 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Plumbago is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Plumbago after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Plumbago in the garden
Plumbago earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, attracting butterflies and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Plumbago with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Plumbago
Plant Sale lists Plumbago as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.