description Plumbago auriculata Overview
Plumbago auriculata, commonly called Cape leadwort or Cape plumbago, is a sprawling, semi-woody shrub in the Plumbaginaceae family native to South Africa. It produces long-lasting clusters of pale blue to sky-blue tubular flowers throughout the growing season. The plant can grow to 1–3 meters and is widely used as a climber, informal hedge, or ground cover in subtropical and warm-temperate climates. It is moderately frost-tolerant and attracts butterflies.
insights Ranking position
Plumbago auriculata ranks #191 of 535 in the Shrub ranking, behind Tibouchina urvilleana, ahead of Prunus spinosa.
help Plumbago auriculata FAQ
Is Plumbago auriculata frost hardy?
Plumbago auriculata is not frost hardy and is typically grown as a tender perennial in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11. In cooler climates, it is often grown in containers that can be moved indoors or treated as an annual during the summer.
What color are Cape plumbago flowers?
Plumbago auriculata produces clusters of pale blue to sky-blue tubular flowers throughout the growing season. A white-flowered cultivar is also available, but the blue form is the most commonly encountered in gardens and landscaping.
How big does Plumbago auriculata grow?
Plumbago auriculata can grow to approximately 2 to 3 meters in height and spread in favorable climates. Its sprawling, semi-woody habit makes it well suited for use as an informal hedge, ground cover, or cascading plant trained over walls and fences.
Does Cape plumbago attract pollinators?
Yes, Plumbago auriculata is known to attract butterflies and other pollinating insects with its tubular flowers that provide nectar. It is frequently recommended in butterfly garden plantings in warm-climate regions such as Florida, Southern California, and the Mediterranean.
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