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This fast-growing species from South Africa reaches 6 ft (1.8 m)
tall with a similar spread and carries its prolific sky-blue flowers
through the warmer months of the year.
The pale green, oblong leaves are 2 in (5 cm) long. It suckers
readily, and will grow higher on supports or by climbing nearby
shrubs.
It is cultivated as an informal hedge or as a trimmed, formal hedge.
Alba has clear white blooms. Royal Cape has flowers of a more
intense blue and is slightly more tolerant of dry conditions than
the species.
Flowering colors: Blue, White
Cultivation: Plumbagos require well-drained soil, perhaps enriched
with a little organic matter.
Although established plants are tolerant of dry conditions, soil
should be kept moist throughout summer to ensure a good flowering
display.
Prune in late winter to tidy their vigorous stems and remove old
wood to encourage new growth and the next seasons flowers.
Propagate from tip cuttings or from semi-hardwood cuttings. |
