Leadwort Plumbago is a perennial flowering plant in the family Plumbaginaceae. It is native to southern Europe, North Africa, and the eastern Mediterranean Basin. The plant has a woody taproot and sprawling stems that can grow up to 2 metres (6.6 ft) long. The ovate to lanceolate leaves are 2–8 centimetres (0.79–3.15 in) long and 0.5–3 centimetres (0.20–1.18 in) wide. The inflorescences are terminal cymes of blue to purple flowers. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Water requirement:
Leadwort requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. The plant is drought-tolerant once established.
Fertilizing:
Plumbago benefits from occasional fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied in spring and summer.
Ideal temperature:
Leadwort prefers warm temperatures and can tolerate heat. It will go dormant in cold weather and should be protected from frost.
Type of Soil:
Plumbago requires full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is tolerant of poor soils and dry conditions. The plant can spread aggressively and is best suited to gardens with ample space. It can be propagated by seed or division.
Water requirement:
Plumbago requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. The plant is drought-tolerant once established.
Fertilizing:
Plumbago benefits from occasional fertilization.
Pruning:
Plumbago can be pruned back hard in early spring to encourage new growth.
Propagation:
Plumbago can be propagated by seed or division.
Pest and Disease:
Plumbago is generally pest and disease free.
Landscape uses:
Plumbago is suitable for gardens, mass planting, and as a groundcover.