Ceratostigma
plumbaginoides is native to a far tougher place than Southern
California. Dwarf Plumbago is native to China. In a number of my gardens Ceratostigma has
naturalized. The plants look pretty lousy if they don't get water,
but will rebound within a couple of weeks of when water is applied.
Ceratostigma is hardy to 0 degrees but will go dormant once temperatures
drop much below freezing. I cut them to near the ground and
interplant bulbs for a winter show. Ceratostigma plumbaginoides
grows about a foot tall and spreads a foot or more each year. The
Dwarf Plumbago can bloom from the last of Spring through Frost. The
dark blue flowers are striking against the red of the bracts. If the
plant is stressed the leaves redden, further adding to a beautiful
contrast.
High resolution images
of Ceratostigma plumbaginoides are available.
