Blue Plumbago
Blue Plumbago
Strong, big, and beautiful. A Plumbago is the perfect plant for anyone looking to add color without fuss, a plant that is inherently pest and disease resistant that also requires little know-how in terms of care. What more needs to be said? Shrubs have never looked so pretty.
- BIG AND BEAUTIFUL: Technically a shrub, Plumbagos can grow up to 10 feet tall with a spread of 10 feet too! Their flowers are a gentle eye attracting blue that blossom for extended periods of time.
- PEST AND DISEASE RESISTANT: Deer and other pests stay away from it, and it’s also very drought tolerable.
-GREAT FOUNDATION PLANT: Grown as an evergreen plant, with potentially yearlong blossoms, a Plumbago is perfect to be grown over wood or stone for that beautiful cascade of a waterfall of foliage.
Questions & Answers
Have a Question?
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How much sun does it need or can it be grown in filtered shade
Blue Plumbago prefers full sun but can tolerate filtered shade.
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Zones for this plant
Blue Plumbago thrives in Zones 8–11.
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Will this thrive in zone 7b ?
It may survive as a perennial with winter protection but typically grows as an annual in Zone 7b.
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Fast or slow growing?
Blue Plumbago is fast-growing.
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Is this an evergreen in Zone 7?
No, it will die back in Zone 7 winters.
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Sun or shade?
Prefers full sun for best flowering but tolerates partial shade.
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will these survive in north wv area?
No, it is not hardy in colder climates like North WV (Zone 6).
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Should a plumbago plant be trimmed back in the spring
Yes, prune in early spring to encourage new growth.
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Can i grow this in a container? Can u ship in early to mid May?
yes, this can be grown in a container.
yes, we ship throughout the year.
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Can it be used to climb trellises?
Yes, it can be trained to climb trellises.
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Does a blue plumbago need sunshade or both
It needs full sun but tolerates some shade.
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I live in area 9. How frost resistant is this plant?
In Zone 9, Blue Plumbago is frost-tender but can tolerate light frost. If temperatures drop below 32°F for extended periods, the plant may die back but often regrows from the roots in spring. Mulching can help protect it during colder weather.
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Do they thrive in full sun, shade, or what kind of light do they prefer???
They thrive in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
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Is this plumbago hardy in zone 8a? Lake Greenwood, SC 29649
Yes, it is hardy in Zone 8a.
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Mine appear dead after a freeze. Do they loose leaves in winter or do they die in winter
Blue Plumbago often loses its leaves and may appear dead after a freeze, but it usually isn't. In Zone 9, it can die back to the ground in winter but typically regrows from the roots in spring if the freeze wasn't too severe. Check for green tissue in the stems or roots to confirm it's still alive.
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What's the zone & could it be grown in a container
Blue Plumbago thrives in zones 8-11. Yes, it can be grown in a container.
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Will the blue plumbago do well in Zone 9A? Is it semi shade tolerant? The proposed location is on the east side of the house, relatively close to the foundation (about 3-4 feet out), and only gets morning sun.
Yes, Blue Plumbago will do well in Zone 9a. It is semi-shade tolerant and can thrive in the proposed location with morning sun. However, for optimal blooming, ensure it gets at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
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Heat resistant? Full sun?
Yes, Blue Plumbago is heat-resistant and thrives in full sun. It tolerates high temperatures well, making it ideal for hot climates like Zone 9.
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Is it a perrinal plant or a anuunal
It is a perennial in warm climates (Zones 8–11).
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What should the spacing be on plumbago
Space plants 18–24 inches apart.
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A week after I bought this plant, it is not blooming. What’s wrong?
It may need more sun, nutrients, or time to acclimate.
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Can you cut down to ground level to clean out debris caught inside of branches
Yes, it can be cut back to ground level if needed.
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Where are you....southern ca.?
We are located in central Louisiana.
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I would like to keep the plumbago a much smaller bush. Will it be ok with annual deep pruning?
Yes, it tolerates deep pruning to maintain a smaller size.
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Do they need to be cut back for the winter months
In colder zones, cut back in fall or after frost.
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Can it be pruned to 5 or 6' or is that ugly
Yes, it can be pruned to that height and still look attractive.
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Is this an outside plant for zone 8 75602 and will it come back year after year if left outside?
Yes, it is perennial and will return annually in Zone 8.
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Zones?
Blue Plumbago thrives in Zones 8–11.
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What zones?
Zones 8-11.
Zone Breakdown:
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Zones 9-11: In these zones, Blue Plumbago can be grown as a perennial, where it remains evergreen and continues to flower year-round in frost-free climates.
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Zone 8: In Zone 8, Blue Plumbago can also be grown as a perennial, but it may die back to the ground in the winter with frost. However, it will usually return in the spring as long as the roots are protected from extreme cold.
Protection in Cooler Zones:
- Colder Zones (Below Zone 8): In regions colder than Zone 8, Blue Plumbago is typically grown as an annual or in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter. Alternatively, it can be dug up and overwintered indoors.
Summary:
Blue Plumbago thrives in USDA Zones 8-11, where it can be grown as a perennial. In colder regions, it is best grown as an annual or in containers that can be moved indoors to protect it from frost and freezing temperatures.
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Can plumbago grow in a large pot?
Yes, a Blue Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata) can grow successfully in a large pot. Growing this flowering shrub in a container allows you to control its size and move it to ideal locations for sunlight. Make sure the pot has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use well-draining soil and place the container in full sun for the best growth and blooms. Regular watering and fertilizing will keep your Blue Plumbago healthy and thriving in a pot.
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Does it have a strong aroma like white jasmine
No, a Blue Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata) does not have a strong aroma like white jasmine. While it is admired for its beautiful sky-blue flowers and ability to attract butterflies, Blue Plumbago is not known for being a fragrant plant. In contrast, white jasmine is famous for its sweet, strong aroma. Blue Plumbago is primarily valued for its visual appeal and low-maintenance qualities in gardens and landscapes.
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Do they freeze? My Plumbago was frost bitten in our 1st frost of the year. Half of it froze. Will it survive the January and February freezes?
Blue Plumbago is not frost-tolerant. It will freeze and suffer damage when exposed to temperatures below 32°F. It may not survive prolonged freezes during January and February unless protected or brought indoors.
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Will blue plumbago grow in northern Nevada where it’s below freezing many nights in the winter?
Blue Plumbago will not survive in northern Nevada’s freezing winter nights. This plant thrives in warmer climates and must be brought indoors or grown as an annual in colder regions.
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Can they survive MN winters if planted in ground
No, Blue Plumbago cannot survive Minnesota winters if planted in the ground. The extreme cold temperatures in Minnesota would kill the plant, which is best suited for warmer zones.
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Can this survive zone 7 in the winter
In Zone 7, Blue Plumbago may survive mild winters if protected, but it is not guaranteed. It is recommended to bring it indoors or provide winter protection to ensure survival in freezing conditions.
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Can this plant survive zone 6B?
Blue Plumbago is not hardy in Zone 6B. It will not survive the cold winter temperatures and should be grown as an annual or kept in containers to bring indoors during winter.
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Are these evergreen in zone 6b
Blue Plumbago is not hardy in Zone 6B. It will not survive the cold winter temperatures and should be grown as an annual or kept in containers to bring indoors during winter.
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What zones
Blue Plumbago thrives best in USDA Zones 9-11, where temperatures stay above freezing year-round. It prefers warm, frost-free climates.
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DOES THIS PLANT WANT A LOT OF WATER WHEN FIRST PLANTED
Yes, Blue Plumbago requires regular watering when first planted to help establish a strong root system. Once established, it becomes more drought-tolerant but should be watered consistently in dry conditions.
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Can you keep plumbago so that it doesn’t grow too big?
Yes, Blue Plumbago can be pruned to control its size. Regular pruning encourages compact growth and prevents it from becoming too large or unruly.
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How long do these take to mature? And, can they share space/soil with azaleas?
Blue Plumbago can take 1-2 years to reach full maturity, depending on growing conditions. It can share space and soil with azaleas, but ensure both plants have enough space and the soil is well-draining. Both plants prefer acidic to slightly neutral soil.
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I took a twig of a blue flowering bush when in Florida. It rooted quickly and is growing very well on my window sill. I live in Massachusetts. Can this Kant go outside for the spring and summer? I decided it is a Plumbago from pictures.
Yes, your blue plumbago can go outside in Massachusetts during the spring and summer. Wait until after the last frost in spring, then place it in a sunny, sheltered spot. Bring it back indoors before the first frost in fall, as plumbago is not cold-hardy in Massachusetts.
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What is the zone for the plumbago shrub?
Zones 8-11 are ideal for blue plumbago.
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Is it also suitable for a container - at least for some time?
Yes, blue plumbago grows well in containers but needs regular pruning and repotting.
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What’s the right way to prep the soil/area and plant these? Can you split them before planting? What type of soil do you recommend? Thanks in advance.
Soil/Area Prep:
- Choose a spot with full sun to part shade.
- Loosen soil to a depth of 12 inches and mix in organic compost for drainage and nutrients.
Planting:
- Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
- Place the plant, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.
Splitting: Yes, you can divide mature blue plumbago plants before planting. Gently separate clumps with a sharp spade, ensuring each division has roots.
Recommended Soil: Well-draining soil, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6-7). Add sand if the soil is heavy clay.
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What zone? I am familiar with the one treated as an annual in zone 7. Is this the perennial? Thank you.
Blue plumbago (Plumbago auriculata) is a perennial in USDA zones 8-11, where it can survive mild winters. In zone 7, it is typically treated as an annual since it cannot withstand freezing temperatures. However, it can be overwintered indoors in colder zones.
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What zone does this plant do BEST in?
Blue plumbago thrives in zones 8-11.
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Are they safe for cats to nibble on..or are they toxic
Blue plumbago is toxic to cats if ingested.
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I planted a plumbago the end of last summer. We removed the hard clay soil and gave it nice dirt (no fertilizer though as instructions). I trimmed off the flowers that had bloomed in late fall. It came back in spring and died. I did give it water as we live just 15 miles south of Tucson. What did I do wrong.
Plumbago is sensitive to extreme conditions and requires specific care to thrive, especially in areas like Tucson. Here are potential reasons your plumbago died and how to address them:
Cold Damage:
Plumbago is hardy in zones 8-11 but struggles with freezing temperatures. Tucson can experience frosty nights, which may have damaged the plant. Protect it with frost cloth during cold spells.Soil Drainage:
Even though you replaced the clay soil, if drainage was still poor, root rot could have developed. Ensure the planting hole has excellent drainage to prevent water pooling around the roots.Watering Issues:
Plumbago needs consistent moisture but not soggy soil. In a dry climate like Tucson, it may need more frequent but deep watering, especially during hot weather.Sun Exposure:
Plumbago prefers full sun to partial shade but can be stressed by intense desert heat. Provide light afternoon shade if necessary.
For future success, improve drainage further, water deeply but less often, and protect the plant from frost or intense summer heat. Mulching around the base can also help regulate soil moisture and temperature.
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Do they drop seeds
Yes, blue plumbago produces seeds, but they rarely self-sow effectively. Most propagation is done through cuttings.
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I HAVE A 14' WIDE X 3' DEEP AREA. HOW MANY SHOULD I ORDER ?
For a 14' wide x 3' deep area, space blue plumbago plants about 2-3 feet apart. You’ll need 5-7 plants for even coverage.
Love this plant. Does well in heat
Plant arrived dead
Not nearly as big as we expected but look healthy.
Plant arrived destroyed and out of pot
Exactly what I needed.