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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 1.5 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Plumbago performs well with relatively little water once established. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
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
Combine Plumbago with plants that share its preference for happy on low water and subtropical climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Buying Plumbago
Plant Sale lists Plumbago as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
