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Genus Plumbago (Leadwort)

Plumbago Plumbago auriculata Photo/Illustration: Michael Dirr
plum-BAY-go Common Name: Leadwort
The genus Plumbago is made up of annuals, perenials, evergreen shrubs, and climbers native to warm temperate and tropical regions worldwide. They are grown for their racemes of pretty white, red, or blue tubular flowers. Grow in a cool greenhouse, in containers, or in a border outdoors. Climbing species can be trained over an arch or pergola.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Showy flowers.
 Care: In the garden, plumbago needs fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Provide support for the stems and protect from strong winds. Indoors, grow in full light and water freely during the growing season.
 Propagation: Sow seed at 55° to 64°F in spring, or root semi-ripe cuttings in mid-summer with bottom heat. Some species may be propagated from softwood cuttings.
 Problems: Generally problem-free outdoors, but spider mites, white flies, and mealybugs may be a problem under glass.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Plumbago

Plumbago auriculata Plumbago auriculata
(Cape leadwort, Cape plumbago) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

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.