BOTANICAL NAME: Plumbago auriculata
COMMON NAME:  Plumbago, Cape Leadwort

DESCRIPTION:
A fast-growing, scrambling, evergreen shrub reaching 2m to 3m high and wide if left unchecked. It bears clusters of delicate, phlox-like flowers in soft sky-blue (sometimes white), appearing prolifically from spring through autumn and often into early winter in warmer regions. Its slender, woody stems and lush green leaves make it both attractive and versatile. Naturally occurring throughout South Africa, Plumbago is hardy, water-wise and a favourite for gardens of all sizes.

GARDEN USES:
Plumbago is one of the most useful and rewarding indigenous shrubs. It makes an excellent informal hedge, screen, or groundcover on banks. It can also be trained along fences, trellises, or walls. Its long flowering season ensures continuous colour in the garden, and it provides nectar for butterflies and other pollinators. Particularly effective in wildlife-friendly, coastal, or water-wise gardens, and striking when paired with aloes, grasses, or other sun-loving shrubs.

CULTURAL INFORMATION:
Plumbago thrives in full sun but will tolerate light semi-shade. It prefers well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established, though regular watering will improve flowering. It responds very well to pruning – a hard cut back in late winter or early spring encourages dense, bushy growth and abundant flowers. It is fast-growing, low-maintenance, frost-tolerant in mild areas, and a truly reliable performer in the South African garden.

DISCLAIMER:  The information presented on this website is intended solely as a general guide. We neither endorse specific plant varieties over others nor claim expertise in stock performance. All information is believed to be accurate, based on private inquiries and experiences, and is provided in good faith. Blackwood’s, including its employees, disclaims any responsibility for harm, loss, cost, or damage arising from the use or reliance upon any information on this website, especially if any part of the information proves to be inaccurate or incomplete. Please note that the displayed photos are not representative of current stock but are used for illustrative purposes only.