Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (Dwarf Plumbago)

An excellent garden species, award-winning Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (Dwarf Plumbago) is a low-growing perennial forming an attractive mat of wiry stems clothed with oval, shiny, fresh green leaves, 2 in. long (5 cm). Emerging late in spring, they turn striking bronzy-red or purple in the fall. Blooming for weeks from mid-summer to mid-fall, clusters of rich gentian blue flowers, 3/4 in. across (2 cm), arranged in terminal heads, appear above the foliage. Dwarf Plumbago is hard to beat as a ground cover in sunny or partly shaded areas or as a plant to ramble over small rocks. Great for erosion control.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 9-12 in. tall (22-30 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). Plants spread by rhizomes to form large colonies in optimum growing conditions.
• Performs best in full sun in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Does not tolerate wet and poorly-drained soils. Plants in zone 5 should be mulched.
• Shear or mow before spring growth begins.
• An excellent companion to spring bulbs, as the late-emerging foliage allows the bulbs to mature their leaves and then hides them as they die down. Grow under trees with open canopies or between shrubs.
• Virtually pest free. Keep an eye out for powdery mildews.
• Propagate by rooting softwood cuttings in spring or propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.
• Native to western China