1 named cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Plumbago auriculata, also known as Cape plumbago, is a sprawling shrub with rich blue flowers that bloom in clusters. It is valued for its long blooming season and ability to thrive in warm climates.
This species is known for its vibrant blue flowers and its ability to tolerate drought conditions, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens and coastal landscapes.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
- Tuck cuttings into moist soil or water to root in 4-6 weeks.
- Transplant young plants after the threat of frost has passed.
- Tuck seeds in shallow soil and keep moist until germination in 2-3 weeks.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Tuck in mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer for quicker propagation success.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushy growth
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize in late fall to prevent unnecessary growth
- Never prune during flowering to preserve blooms
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago questions
What zones can Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago grow in?
Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago deer resistant?
Yes — Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago bloom?
Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago need full sun?
Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Plumbago to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Cape Plumbago Blue Plumbago with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.