This evergreen shrub, native to South Africa, has long, skinny stems and phlox-like pale blue flowers. It can be used as a shrub, climber, pot plant, or groundcover.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsEvergreen; pale blue flowers; barbed fruit capsules.
CareCan be grown indoors or in the garden. Indoors, water freely and fertilize monthly during the growing season. If plants are in pots, move outdoors in summer if desired. In the garden, plumbago likes fertile soil in full sun. If growing on a trellis, tie stems to supports. Protect from strong winds.
PropagationEasily grown from seed, but takes 2 years to flower (sow seed at 55° to 64°F in spring). Root semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer with bottom heat.
ProblemsSpider mites, whiteflies, mealybugs (especially indoors).
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Black and Decker 22-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer
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- 38 x 7 x 7 inches
- 6.9 pounds
- 1 Lithium Ion battery required (included)
Gilmour 811673-1001 Sprinkler
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- Adjustable collar for partial- to full-circle coverage
- Dial precisely sets spray distance
- On/off switch eliminates trips from sprinkler to spigot
DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw
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- 18.31 x 6.13 x 4 inches
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length
- Variable speed trigger with 0-3000 spm
- Genus : Plumbago
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 10, 11, 8, 9
- Uses : Containers
- Bloom Time : Fall, Summer
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Characteristics : Showy Fruit
- Plant Type : Shrubs
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
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