A deeper-blue selection of cape plumbago, smothered in phlox-like sky-blue flowers from summer well into autumn. Fast, drought-hardy and coastal-tolerant, good as an informal hedge or scrambler.
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 Royal Cape Plumbago
Botanically, Plumbago auriculata 'Royal Cape' 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 Royal Cape Plumbago
Royal Cape Plumbago suits subtropical, warm-temperate and Mediterranean 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.
Soil & planting
Royal Cape Plumbago does best in free-draining 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
Royal Cape Plumbago performs well with relatively little water once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Royal Cape 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. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Royal Cape Plumbago in the garden
Royal Cape Plumbago earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, a feature or specimen planting and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Royal Cape Plumbago with species that also favour happy on low water and subtropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Royal Cape Plumbago
Plant Sale lists Royal Cape Plumbago as potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
