•Status in Florida: Cultivated, non-native
•Size at Maturity: Plumbago typically grows as a sprawling shrub, reaching heights of about 3 to 6 feet tall and spreading up to 6 to 10 feet wide.
•Phenology: Perennial shrub with clusters of delicate, sky-blue flowers.
•Life Cycle: Perennial
•Bloom Season: Plumbago blooms profusely throughout the warm months, typically from spring to fall.
•Deciduous, Dioecious, Evergreen: Evergreen
•Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
•Soil Texture: Well-drained, fertile soil; tolerant of various soil types
•Soil pH: Tolerant of a wide range, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0)
•Moisture Requirements: Moderate moisture; water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
•Tolerance to Salt Spray: Moderate tolerance
•Recommended Landscape Uses: Plumbago is often grown as a landscape shrub or ground cover in subtropical and tropical gardens, where it adds color and interest with its vibrant blue flowers. It can also be grown in containers or used as a low hedge.
•Maintenance Tips: Prune Plumbago lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Remove spent flowers to promote continued blooming.
•Considerations: Plumbago is valued for its profuse blooming and ability to attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. However, it can spread aggressively in favorable conditions, so it may require periodic pruning to keep it in check.
•Deer and/or Rabbit Resistance: Moderately resistant; deer and rabbits may occasionally browse on plumbago foliage, but it is not typically preferred by these animals.
•Edible: Plumbago is not typically consumed by humans and is not considered edible.
•Medicinal Uses: Plumbago is not known for significant medicinal uses in humans.
•Toxicity to Pets: Plumbago is toxic if ingested by pets and may cause gastrointestinal upset. It should be planted with caution in areas accessible to animals.
•Florida Native Companion Plant: While not native to Florida, Plumbago can be grown alongside native plants in gardens to provide ornamental interest and attract pollinators.