Hardy Plumbago

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides is a low-growing, woody-based deciduous shrub or sub-shrub that provides a stunning display in late summer and autumn. It is prized for its intense, gentian-blue flowers which appear in clusters at a time when many other plants are beginning to fade. Adding to its appeal, the small, ovate leaves turn a brilliant, fiery red or purple in the autumn, creating a spectacular contrast with the blue blossoms. It has a spreading, mat-forming habit, making it an excellent groundcover for the front of a sunny border or for trailing over a low wall. It is generally hardy (H5) in the UK, although its stems typically die back to the ground in winter, with new growth appearing late in the spring. It thrives in well-drained soil in a position that receives full sun. To keep it tidy, the dead stems should be cut back to ground level in early spring. It is a drought-tolerant and easy-to-grow plant once established.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Aug, Sep, Oct.