Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Ceratostigma willmottianum
Chinese Plumbago
- Family
- Plumbaginaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 3 to 4 feet, spreading shrub
- Flower color
- Bright blue
- Foliage color
- Green leaves that turn reddish-bronze in fall
- Bloom time
- Late summer to fall
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and butterflies
About this plant
Ceratostigma willmottianum, commonly known as Chinese Plumbago, is a deciduous shrub prized for its vivid cobalt-blue flowers and striking red-tinged autumn foliage. Blooming from late summer through fall, the small, bright blue, star-shaped flowers provide a vibrant contrast to the green leaves, creating a dazzling display when many other plants have finished flowering. As the season progresses, the leaves turn rich shades of red and bronze, extending the plant's ornamental appeal into the cooler months.
Native to the rocky slopes of western China, Ceratostigma willmottianum is well-suited to warmer climates and can thrive in a variety of garden settings, from borders to containers. Its late-season bloom time makes it a valuable addition to the landscape, bringing color and interest to the garden at a time when many plants are winding down. This shrub is often chosen for its unique combination of vivid flowers and striking fall foliage, adding texture and depth to gardens throughout the growing season.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Borders · Containers · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Russian sage · Blue fescues · Coreopsis · Yarrow · Daylilies · Creeping phlox
Design tip
Late-season blue flowers followed by reddish-bronze foliage give this shrub a natural role in carrying the garden toward autumn. Weave it among earlier-blooming plants so the focus shifts gradually through the season, keeping the planting colorful and interesting without relying on one peak moment.
