Ceratostigma (sir-at-oh-STIG-muh) Common Name:  Plumbago, leadwort Light:  - Full sun to part shade Soil:  Average to rich, moist but well-drained Moisture:  Average to slightly moist Blooms:  Late summer Zones:  5 - 9 -*-

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides

Ceratostigma Description and Cultural Information

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides, plumbago, leadwort. 6" - 12". This is a spreading, semi-woody groundcover with dark green foliage and dark blue foliage in late summer and early fall. The foliage also has great fall color, turning reddish after a light frost. Plumbago can be somewhat invasive (like many nice groundcovers) but can be divided in spring to control their spread. Self-sown seedlings are also possible.

How to Grow:  Plant in average to rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. They are relatively easy to grow and will spread from underground stems to form a thick, dense groundcover. In too much shade they will be sparse and may not bloom much.

Landscape Uses:  Plant plumbago at the front of the perennial border or as a fast growing groundcover in the shrub border. It also works well in rock gardens or with other tough perennials such as Sedum and daylilies.