About
A lax evergreen shrub with slender stems bearing light green, oblanceolate leaves and terminal racemes of pure white flowers in late summer and autumn.
About the genus
Plumbago can be annuals, perennials or scrambling evergreen shrubs, with simple leaves and short terminal racemes of salver-shaped flowers with 5 spreading lobes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs
HabitBushy, Climbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toS Africa
ToxicitySkin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Skin irritant - Harmful if eaten, except ripe fruit. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs): Skin irritant - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass grow in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light. When in growth water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Water sparingly in winter. Can be grown outdoors in warmer climes in most fertile soils
PruningPruning group 12 in early spring
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 13 to 18°C in spring or take semi-hardwood cuttings in midsummer with bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free