This lovely herbaceous species is versatile and undemanding. It is the star of the late-summer garden with its spiky bright red flower buds and vivid blue flowers, displaying long-lasting mahogany red foliage in fall. Spreading slowly via underground runners, this long-lived plant makes a solid mat with erect, slender red stems and bright green leaves.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsUnder irrigated conditions, it grows well both in full sun and in full shade. Leaves are slow to emerge in the spring.
CareProvide full sun or part shade (especially in hot summer areas) and moist but well-drained soil. Remove suckers in spring.
PropagationSoftwood cuttings in spring or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
ProblemsPowdery mildew.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
D&X Garden Sprinkler
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- 12 flexible nozzles that you can set in any direction, simply bend hoses to customize new watering patterns - 360 degree coverage of 3000 sq. ft area
- 3.5 x 4 x 6 inches
Gilmour 5/8" x 25' Round Weeper Soaker Hose
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
XLUX Soil Moisture Meter
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Simply insert the moisture meter into soil and you'll get the test result instantly
- Single probe, less hurts to the roots, doesn't dig up too much soil after test
- Genus : Ceratostigma
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Light : Full Sun
- Uses : Ground Covers, Shade
- Bloom Time : Late Summer, Summer
- Maintenance : Low
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
