Cape Leadwort, or Plumbago auriculata, is a densely packed evergreen vine native to South Africa. This RHS Garden Merit winner has five-petalled sky-blue trumpet-shaped flowers on short racemes that bloom from spring through summer. Cape Leadwort grows up to 10 feet tall and wide and makes a great groundcover or an attractive addition to beds, wall-side borders, and Mediterranean-themed gardens.
Etymology
The plant is a member of the Plumbaginaceae family, which originates from the Latin word plumbago meaning “lead” as the root was thought to cure “lead-palsy.” Cape Leadwort is a perennial, which means it will live longer than two years.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Cape Leadwort has a colorful history and religious significance in many cultures. In some cultures, it is believed that the flower symbolizes faithfulness and wholehearted strength. Its use is also associated with many ancient and modern religious ceremonies, such as weddings and funerals.
Varieties
The varieties of Cape Leadwort are divided into two groups: the bush form and the capillary form. The bush form has a rounded, compact shape, while the capillary form grows more graceful and willowy.
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Planting Cape Leadwort
Cape Leadwort is an amazing flower that successfully grows in different climates, provided a few key requirements are met. When planted in the right spot with the right kind of soil, water, and fertilizer, it can be a beautiful addition to your garden. With minimal maintenance, Cape Leadwort can be an enjoyable and low-maintenance addition to outdoor and indoor spaces.
With so much potential, growing Cape Leadwort should not be overlooked. Whether you’re growing it indoors or out, in a pot or in the ground, the Cape Leadwort is an RHS Garden Merit winner that is sure to impress with its beauty, durability, and longevity.
Planting and growing Cape Leadwort is as easy as finding a spot with full sun and well-draining soil and sowing the seeds. The ideal temperature for Cape Leadwort is between 10-25°C (50-77°F). Using the right fertilizer is also essential for the best results, as the plant needs a combination of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every month.
Potting and Repotting
In terms of potted plants, if you are bringing your Cape Leadwort indoors, it needs a lot of light and adequate drainage. The best potting mix for indoor Cape Leadwort is one that provides aeration and drainage. The mix should also be able to retain moisture. Have the right size pot ready and mix the potting mix with minor amounts of natural fertilizers to give your plants the necessary nutrients to thrive.
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Pruning
Cape Leadwort responds well to pruning, provided you know how and when to do it. Feel free to experiment with pruning, but it is best to cut the branches that have finished blooming to encourage more growth and flowering.
Propagating
Propagating Cape Leadwort is also really easy. You can propagate it from seeds and cuttings. To propagate this plant from seeds, spread them over the surface of the pot and cover thinly with soil, water regularly and wait for them to germinate. To propagate from cuttings, take a cutting from a larger plant, remove the leaves from the lower nodes, and dip the end in rooting compound before planting in the soil.
Pests and Diseases
Like all plants, Cape Leadwort is susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, mites, and thrips. Common diseases include leaf spot, root rot, powdery mildew, and anthracnose. To mitigate the chances of pests and disease, ensure you water and fertilize the plant properly and keep the soil clean of fallen leaves and dead stems.
Fact sheet
| Cape Leadwort | Plumbago auriculata |
|---|---|
| Family | Plumbaginaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennials |
| Mature Size | 10 feet tall and wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Soil Type | Well-draining |
| Soil pH | 5.5–7.5 |
| Bloom Time | Spring to summer |
| Flower Color | Sky blue |
| Hardiness Zones | 9-11 |
| Native Area | South Africa |
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