Species Cape leadwort

Cape leadwort

Plumbago auriculata

Also Known As - cape leadwort
Cape leadwort (Plumbago auriculata), also known as plumbago, is a low-growing, evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It has bright green, lance-shaped leaves and produces masses of small, light-blue flowers in summer. This drought-tolerant flowering plant can reach up to a metre in height, making it an ideal choice for coastal gardens. Its bright blooms make it a popular choice for borders, garden beds, containers or rock gardens. It's easy to grow, requiring little maintenance while performing best in full sun or lightly shaded areas. It is an excellent choice for summer colour and is a great alternative to traditional bedding plants.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Greenwood Cuttings

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 11

Flowers:

Pale blue Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

blue Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Cape leadwort (Plumbago auriculata) should be watered frequently during the summer months when the temperatures are warmer. The amount of water will depend on the soil conditions and the weather. Generally speaking, Cape leadwort should be watered deeply once or twice a week throughout the summer months. During extended periods of dry weather, it may be necessary to increase the watering frequency to 3 times per week. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and other water-related issues. It is also important to ensure that the soil is well drained, as this will help reduce any moisture buildup in the soil.

sunlight

Cape leadwort (Plumbago auriculata) enjoys full sun and thrives best if it receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunshine each day. In areas with very hot summers, plants may require some afternoon shade to protect them from the intense rays of the afternoon sun. This plant species is not suitable for shaded locations. When it comes to sunlight and time of day, more is generally better as long as it does not lead to sunburn. A plant will grow best when it is exposed to the sun in the morning and allowed to rest in the afternoon.

pruning

In most areas, Cape leadwort (Plumbago auriculata) is best pruned in late spring after the plant has bloomed and before summer. Pruning should be light, with only dead, weak, or damaged foliage and stems being cut back. Avoid removing more than 1-third of the plant's foliage and stems each year, as this can cause the plant to become unbalanced and result in poor growth and reduced flowering. When pruning, select healthy stems that are no longer than 1 year old, as these are the most vigorous and best able to produce flowers. Rejuvenation pruning is possible but should only be done when absolutely necessary, as vigorous pruning can lead to greater disease and damage in the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Plumbago auriculata (Cape leadwort) typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Cape leadwort typically starts flowering in August.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Plumbago auriculata (Cape leadwort) typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map