Ceratostigma willmottianum – The Chinese Plumbago
With lots of cultivars around, Ceratostigma willmottianum is a wonderful low maintenance plant. Masses of blue flowers from spring through summer and good fall color.
This is a frost hardy plant that has the advantage of being reasonably drought tolerant once established. Used widely in landscaping in mass plantings where a low maintenance plant is required.
Also useful in part shade where it provides a little color in dull areas. Tolerant of coastal conditions and useful in the garden border for its long flowering nature.
Care
Once established very little maintenance is required at all. A well drained humus rich soil is best, however Ceratostigma is tolerant of poor soils.
Plants require little pruning however they can be pruned immediately after the first flush of flowers to help maintain shape if required.
Varieties
- Ceratostigma willmottianum ‘Desert Skies’ – Attractive golden foliage for extra color in the garden
- Ceratostigma ‘Saphire Ring
- Ceratostigma griffithii is the Burmese plumbago reaches around 3ft in height and will send out runners. As it will grow beneath conifers it is a very useful plant.
Propagation
Propagation is by division in spring.
- Dig the clump with a garden fork.
- Divide with a sharp spade or knife.
- Make sure that each section has a good root system.
- Re plant and water in with a liquid seaweed fertilizer,
Where to buy
SOONER PLANT FARM – (918) 453-0771
Park Hill OK
