Plant of the Month: Plumbago

Long, hot Gainesville summers can be tough on flowering plants. Our June plant of the month, Plumbago, is a great solution if you're looking for a bit of color in your landscape during the warmer months.

Plumbago is native to South Africa, and as a result, thrives in the hottest parts of the United States, including Florida and Texas. It is a shrub that can grow between six and ten feet tall. The branches are a deep green and resemble vines, so it is often used to cover sparse spaces in a landscape. It blooms in clumps of delicate-looking blue flowers, and it blooms for an extended period, often lasting through the entire summer!We always recommend low-maintenance plants, and Plumbago fits the bill. Drought and heat resistant, they don't require special watering and do well in full sun. They do need some occasional pruning, but don't over-do it, or you'll sacrifice blooms later. With very little work, a Plumbago plant can be a wonderful addition to your landscaping. If you're looking to add a little more color in the summer, and to attract birds and butterflies to your yard, consider finding a sunny spot for a Plumbago.