Grace Ward Lithodora (Lithodora diffusa 'Grace Ward')

This superb groundcover smothers itself in deep, true-blue, star-shaped flowers in spring, with sporadic rebloom through summer. The sprawling, slightly mounded habit (spreading 4–7 feet) creates a dense carpet of narrow, dark green evergreen leaves. It thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and appreciates some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to partial sun.
• Water: Moderate; well-drained soil is essential. Avoid wet feet.
• Height: 2 feet or less (6–12 inches).
• Spread: 4–7 feet.

Care Tips

Light shear after main bloom to encourage density. Mulch with gravel or coarse sand to improve drainage. Not tolerant of heavy clay or alkaline soils. Photo credit: Doreen Wynja.

Landscape Uses

Outstanding for rock gardens, slopes, wall crevices, and well-drained borders. The intense blue flowers are a rare treasure in the garden palette.