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Key characteristics

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

Shrubs

Ceratostigma willmottianum

Chinese Plumbago

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.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late summer to fall

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)