Plumbago

Plumbago, or leadwort, is a low, rhizomatous perennial with deep blue flowers and foliage that colors in autumn. It forms a spreading groundcover for sunny to partly shaded borders, especially where late-season color and coverage around spring bulbs are useful. ([Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder](https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?=&taxonid=285165)) ## Growth and Placement Plants generally reach about 9–12 inches tall and spread roughly 12–18 inches. Clusters of five-petaled blue flowers appear from midsummer into fall, and the leaves develop bronze-red tones later in the season. Use plumbago along a border front, beneath shrubs, or in a rock garden, leaving room for rhizomes to expand. ## Soil and Water Grow in average, medium-moisture soil with good drainage. It tolerates clay but can struggle in wet, poorly drained ground. Full sun to part shade works; afternoon shade can help in hot summer climates. It is listed for USDA zones 5–9, though the Missouri Botanical Garden notes that it may need light winter mulch in colder zone 5 sites. ([Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder](https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?=&taxonid=285165)) ## Maintenance Monitor the rhizomes and trim or divide the colony if it spreads beyond its space. Cut back damaged stems as needed and leave room for its late flowers to show above neighboring spring bulbs.