<i>Ceratostigma willmottianum</i> | Chinese Plumbago
DESCRIPTION
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.
DESCRIPTION
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.
DESCRIPTION
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.
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Family: Plumbaginaceae
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Width: 3 to 4 feet, spreading shrub
Foliage color: Green leaves that turn reddish-bronze in fall
Flower color: Bright blue
Bloom time: Late summer to fall
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Moderate
Maintenance: Low
Growing zone: USDA zones 6 to 9
Wildlife attractors: Attracts bees and butterflies