The plumbago plant (Plumbago auriculata), also known as the Cape plumbago or sky flower, is actually a shrub and in its natural surroundings can grow 6 to 10 feet (1-3 m.) tall with a spread of 8 to 10 feet (2-3 m.). It is native to South Africa, and knowing this provides the first clue to how to grow a plumbago, along with where to grow one. Plumbago thrives in the South African heat and in the United States it is found growing year-round in the southernmost parts of Texas and Florida.
Cape Leadwort Care
Plumbago Auriculata
What is the plant
humidity
Normal
lighting
Part sun and part shade
temperature
12°C - 18°C
hardiness zone
8a - 11b
difficulty
Medium
How to Care for the Plant
Water
Leadwort has moderate moisture needs. water during prolonged periods of drought to prevent the soil from fully drying out. but make sure your plants don't become waterlogged, as they can easily rot in such conditions.
Pruning
Trim off any dead leaves and stems.
Fertilizer
As with most houseplants, they will benefit from an occasional feed during the growing season. An organic, balanced, liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer is recommended.
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Sunlight
Semi-shade location.
Soil
Medium light/Partly shaded – This is where the plant gets some morning sun or some afternoon sun. Morning sun is less intense than afternoon sun, so putting your plants a few meters in from an East facing window works for maximum sun while reducing the risk of burning.
Temperature
If you live in an area which is mild all year round, then this is the ideal growing environment for this plant. In warm temperatures, it is able to flower all year round. The lowest temperature this plant can tolerate is around 32° F,
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Container
Whether it be plastic or clay, make sure the pot you select has drainage holes in the bottom to prevent over-watering.
Additional
Toxic to people, non-toxic to animals
Popularity
4,204 people already have this plant 941 people have added this plant to their wishlists
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