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Plumbago auriculata

Imperial Blue

Plumbago auriculata has a sprawling stem pattern and dense leaves which creates a thick, billowy effect. Unsupported, it will form a rounded shrub 4 foot by 4 foot. Supply it with a trellis, or some other support and it will climb up to 12 foot in height.

The flowers bloom in rounded terminal clusters which are 6 inches across. Each bloom consists of many individual flowers. Plumbago will bloom all year, taking a rest only in the coldest months.

Give it full sun for the best flower production, but it will also thrive in partial shade, although with less flowers. It is a tropical plant, but will do well in Zone 9. In Zone 8 it will freeze to the ground, returning from the roots in the spring. It can be overwintered indoors if given as much light as possible.

Plumbago is a very flexible shrub that lends itself to many uses. It takes pruning well, allowing you to use your imagination in your garden planning. Use it as a stand alone mound, as a ground cover, as a border planting, as a container plant, or in any situation where a dense cover with many flowers is desired.

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