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UF/IFAS Extension University of Florida

Plumbago

A cluster of blue flowers
P. auriculata is the classic blue plumbago; it’s non-native, but Florida-Friendly. Credit: UF/IFAS

Plumbago is a low-maintenance shrub that brings interest to many Florida landscapes. Its clusters of cool blue or white flowers are unmatched and make it a favorite among traditional garden selections.

Although the genus Plumbago contains a dozen or more species, two are most frequently found in Florida: Plumbago auriculata and Plumbago zeylanica (also called P. scandens).

Plumbago auriculata is the classic blue plumbago, native to South Africa. Though non-native, this Florida-Friendly plant is considered by the UF/IFAS Assessment as “not a problem species.” It is sometimes called Cape plumbago, leadwort or sky flower. The names plumbago and leadwort have been passed down through history from an ancient Roman naturalist, Pliny the Elder. Something about the ethereal bluish hue of the plant reminded him of lead; thus plumbago, Latin for “resembling lead.”

White-flowering Plumbago zeylanica is native to Florida and grows in zones 9B to 11. It’s found growing wild mainly on the coasts of Central and South Florida. Sometimes called doctorbush, we can’t speak to any medicinal properties, but it is a host plant for the cassius blue and other butterflies. Most gardeners report minimal caterpillar damage, so you can install this host with confidence.

Characteristics

An orange and brown butterfly visits a prickly-looking plant with small white flowers.
This native plumbago is being visited by a fiery skipper. Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org

Both species of plumbago develop sprawling, mounded shapes. Pruning will keep them more compact but they look their best planted with room to grow. This makes foundation and mass plantings the installation of choice in most landscapes.

Plumbago foliage is bright green, of medium density, and remains evergreen in frost-free areas of the state. Stems are thin and somewhat vine-like, keeping its form delicate even in mass plantings. Evergreen foliage, cascading form and persistent fruits give plumbago some winter interest. A freeze may cause die-back, but plants generally recover quickly once the weather warms up in the spring.

Plumbago’s phlox-like blue or white flowers attract butterflies. Some gardeners report the flowers having a pleasant fragrance. Central and South Florida landscapes will enjoy blooms year-round, unless hit by frost. In North Florida, plumbago usually blooms from spring through fall.

Planting and Care

Plumbago plant with blue flowers
The sprawling, fountain-shaped growth habit of plumbago. Credit: UF/IFAS

Plant plumbago anytime of the year. It generally looks its best when planted in full sun and well-drained soil. Both species require regular watering until established but are moderately drought tolerant afterwards.

Plumbago grows quickly but excess growth can be pruned off at any point throughout the year. Growth damaged by frost should be pruned off in spring.

Plumbago auriculata can be affected by tiny insects called chilli thrips, which cause the leaves to look curled and stunted. Cotton cushion scale and mites are occasionally a problem, too, but do not usually affect the long-term health of the plant. Plumbago has no major diseases of concern but alkaline (high pH) soil can result in mineral deficiencies and yellowing leaves.

For more on plumbago and other Florida-Friendly plants, contact your county Extension office.

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