Plumbago auriculata
TAXONOMY
FamilyPlumbaginaceae
GenusPlumbago
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Plumbago auriculata, commonly known as Cape Leadwort or Blue Plumbago, is a scrambling shrub native to South Africa. It is known for its beautiful clusters of sky-blue flowers and is often used as a decorative plant in gardens and landscapes. It thrives in subtropical climates and can grow quite vigorously under the right conditions.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cape Leadwort
Dentelaire Du Cap
Dentellaire Du Cap
Plumbagidium Auriculatum
Plumbago auriculata f. auriculata
Plumbago capensis
Plumbago du cap
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Cape Leadwort requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and does well in humid environments. Regular watering is necessary, but the soil should be allowed to dry out partially between waterings. This plant can be grown outdoors in subtropical climates and needs protection from frost.Soil
Plumbago auriculata prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but thrives best in soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is suitable for Cape Leadwort. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.Repotting
Repotting is necessary when the plant outgrows its container. This is typically done in the spring. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage, and use fresh, well-draining soil. Handle the roots gently to avoid damage.Propagation
Plumbago auriculata can be propagated through stem cuttings or by layering. The best time to propagate is during the growing season. For stem cuttings, select healthy, non-flowering shoots and root them in a moist, well-draining medium.Pruning
Regular pruning is required to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and remove any dead or damaged branches. This will also help to keep the plant from becoming too leggy.Toxicity
Plumbago auriculata is generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any potential issues.Additional
Cape Leadwort can be trained to grow on trellises or used as a ground cover. It is a versatile plant that can add a splash of color to any garden. Regular monitoring for pests such as aphids and spider mites is recommended to keep the plant healthy.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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