The hardy plumbago, Ceratostigma plumbaginoides, is a low-growing, spreading, woody perennial with slender red stems clothed in bright green leaves, which turn bright red before falling in autumn. However, it's grown mainly for its vivid blue flowers, which appear in small clusters from late summer to mid-autumn. It makes a great ground cover plant and is perfect for adding late colour to the front of the border. It develops tolerance to drought when established.
Grow Ceratostigma plumbaginoides towards the front of a sheltered, sunny border in well-drained soil. Cut back dead flowers in spring.
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Ceratostigma and wildlife
Ceratostigma has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
