Cape leadwort (Plumbago auriculata) plum-BAY-go or-ik-yew-LAY-tah Genus:  Plumbago This evergreen shrub, native to South Africa, has long, skinny stems and phlox-like pale blue flowers. It can be used as a shrub, climber, pot plant, or groundcover. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Evergreen; pale blue flowers; barbed fruit capsules. Care:  Can be grown indoors or in the garden. Indoors, water freely and fertilize monthly during the growing season. If plants are in pots, move outdoors in summer if desired. In the garden, plumbago likes fertile soil in full sun. If growing on a trellis, tie stems to supports. Protect from strong winds. Propagation:  Easily grown from seed, but takes 2 years to flower (sow seed at 55° to 64°F in spring). Root semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer with bottom heat. Problems:  Spider mites, whiteflies, mealybugs (especially indoors).

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Fall, Summer Flower Color Blue Foliage Color Evergreen Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Indoor Plant, Suitable as Annual, Trellis Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs