Cape leadwort - Plumbago auriculata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Cape leadwort

Also known as: Blister bush, Cape plumbago

Cape leadwort is a flowering plant native to South Africa. Its Latin name, Plumbago auriculata, is derived from the word auriculata meaning "with ears," referring to the shape of its leaves. The leaves serve as food for the caterpillar of the Hummingbird hawk-moth. The plant's sticky sepals, on the other hand, can grab animals as small as a housefly.

Scientific classification

Species

Cape leadwort (Plumbago auriculata)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall, Early winter

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer, Fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

60 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

50 cm to 80 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Blue, White, Purple

Flower Color

Green, Blue

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Cape leadwort

Distribution of Cape leadwort

Distribution Map

Cape leadwort is native to southern Africa, growing in thickets along dry, coastal slopes. It has been introduced in many subtropical countries, including the US, where it is used as an ornamental and houseplant.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Bushes, Thickets

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Cape leadwort can be used as flowerbeds and border shrubs. Commonly used as a shrub or groundcover plant, it is prized for its blue flowers. It can also be trained to climb a trellis. A good fit for Mediterranean gardens, it is often planted with Imperial Delight, whose showy blooms make a good visual complement.

Symbolism

Hope, good wishes

Interesting Facts

According to legend, in ancient times, a soldier and a princess fell in love with each other, and the soldier had to go off to fight in a war. With the cruelty of the war, the soldier never came back. The princess who lost her love chose to commit suicide, and a patch of cape leadwort blossomed in the place where she died.

Name Story

Cape leadwort: The name, leadwort is related to its genus name, Plumbago which is derived from plumbum, meaning lead. As this plant has a detoxifying utility to lead poisoning and it is also originated from South Africa, it is called cape leadwort.

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Toxicity

Cape leadwort is mildly toxic to both cats and dogs. All parts of the plant are poisonous, causing symptoms like physical discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea when ingested in high amounts. Immediate veterinary care is required if ingestion occurs to ensure the well-being of the pet.

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Quickly Identify Cape leadwort

Spreading habit, up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall and wide.

Phlox-like flowers in sky-blue to pale blue color.

Barbed capsules aiding in seed dispersal, under 0.2 inches (5mm) long.

Obovate leaves with crenulate margins, 0.4 to 1 inch (10 to 25mm) long.

Delicate flowers, 1 inch (2.5cm) across, in pale blue to pinkish hues.

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Care Guide for Cape leadwort

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from South Africa, cape leadwort thrives in subtropical conditions. It prefers consistent moisture and should be watered weekly. As an evergreen, cape leadwort requires regular hydration to maintain lush foliage, making it suitable for outdoor landscaping in regions with mild temperatures.

Fertilize: For cape leadwort, use balanced nutrition fertilizers monthly during the growing season to promote growth and blooms. A high phosphorus formula is recommended in spring. Reduce fertilization in autumn and use diluted solutions for young plants. Water thoroughly post-fertilization to aid absorption and prevent buildup.

Pruning: Cape leadwort is an evergreen shrub with vibrant blue flowers, known for its climbing ability. Prune in early spring or late winter to shape and enhance blooming, removing one-third of the plant. Avoid heavy pruning during bloom season to reduce stress.

Propagation: Cape leadwort is an adaptable plant that adds blue hues to gardens. Propagate by cutting healthy non-flowering stems (15-20 cm), removing lower leaves, and using rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining soil, maintaining moisture and warmth, with roots establishing in a few weeks for transplanting.

Repotting: Repot cape leadwort every 2-3 years in spring, using a pot one size larger with good drainage. After repotting, provide indirect light and maintain even moisture for healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

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Images of Cape leadwort

Distribution of Cape leadwort

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Cape leadwort

Care Guide for Cape leadwort

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