Cape leadwort (Plumbago auriculata)

Also known as: Blister bush, Cape plumbago

Cape leadwort, scientifically known as *Plumbago auriculata*, is a flowering plant indigenous to South Africa. The term "auriculata" in its name signifies "with ears," alluding to the shape of its leaves. These leaves provide nourishment for the caterpillars of the Hummingbird hawk-moth. Additionally, the plant's adhesive sepals can trap small animals like houseflies.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Cape leadwort

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Height

60 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

50 cm to 80 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 cm

Flower Color

Blue White Purple

Images of Cape leadwort

Quickly Identify Cape leadwort

Spreading habit, up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall and wide.

Phlox-like flowers in sky-blue to pale blue color.

Barbed capsules aiding in seed dispersal, under 0.2 inches (5mm) long.

Obovate leaves with crenulate margins, 0.4 to 1 inch (10 to 25mm) long.

Delicate flowers, 1 inch (2.5cm) across, in pale blue to pinkish hues.

Scientific Classification of Cape leadwort

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Caryophyllales

Family

Leadwort

Genus

Plumbago

Species

Cape leadwort

Planting and Growing of Cape leadwort

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Cape leadwort?

For Plumbago auriculata, it is essential to water the plant thoroughly until water starts to drain from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root system is hydrated. Ensure there is good drainage to prevent water from stagnating, which can lead to root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Cape leadwort? ›

What should I do if my Cape leadwort is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Cape leadwort? ›

How to save an overwatered Cape leadwort? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cape leadwort?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours of sunlight

Plumbago auriculata flourishes in full sun to partial sun conditions. Providing this light range promotes abundant flowering and healthy foliage, contributing to the plant’s vigorous growth and aesthetic appeal.

How much sunlight does Plumbago auriculata need? ›

How can I achieve ideal sunlight conditions? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cape leadwort?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 80℉

The ideal temperature range for Plumbago auriculata is between 65°F and 80°F. These temperatures provide optimal conditions for growth and flowering, ensuring the plant maintains vibrant foliage and prolific blossoms. At these temperatures, the plant undergoes photosynthesis efficiently, which aids in healthy growth and lush appearance.

What Soil is Best for Cape leadwort?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Plumbago auriculata thrives in well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Well-drained sandy or loamy soils allow excess water to escape quickly, ensuring the roots have access to air and nutrients, promoting robust growth. This plant prefers soils with moderate nutrient levels. Sandy loams that are not overly rich help in controlling excessive foliage at the expense of flowers, ensuring a balanced nutrient uptake that supports healthy blooms. Plumbago auriculata grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soils, with a pH range between 6.5 and 7.5. This pH range allows optimal nutrient availability, ensuring the plant takes up essential minerals efficiently. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Cape leadwort?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For optimal growth, Plumbago auriculata thrives with a balanced fertilizer mix. A common recommendation is to use a water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio such as 10-10-10, following the label instructions, which is typically 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Cape leadwort?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by removing any dead or damaged branches—use sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts. Trim the branches back to a lateral shoot or bud to stimulate growth in a desirable direction. Regular trimming will prevent the plant from becoming leggy and maintain its natural mound form, promoting a compact, bushy look. Post-bloom removal of spent flowers, also known as deadheading, is crucial as it encourages new flower growth. The process involves cutting the flower stems just above the first set of leaves, which redirects nutrients to developing new buds rather than sustaining faded blossoms. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cape leadwort plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late spring, Early summer

Choose healthy stems for cuttings; they should be free from disease and have a thickness of about a pencil. Ensure the mother plant is well-watered before you start.

Cut 4-6 inch long sections from the stem, just below a leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem to expose the nodes.

Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it in a pot with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.

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How to Repot Cape leadwort plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Plumbago auriculata when you notice roots coming out of the drainage holes or the growth has slowed significantly. These are signs the plant is root-bound and in need of more space.

Select a pot that's one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has good drainage holes. A slightly larger pot prevents waterlogging and provides room for roots to expand, promoting healthy growth.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, ideally containing sand or perlite, to prevent water retention. This type of soil keeps the roots from rotting and allows air to circulate, crucial for healthy plant growth.

Toxicity of Cape leadwort

Is Cape leadwort toxic to cat?

Cape leadwort exhibits a low degree of toxicity to cats and presents a danger if ingested in large quantities. Every part of the plant is toxic, indicating that any portion of cape leadwort can lead to poisoning in cats. If a cat ingests cape leadwort, it might show common signs of physical discomfort or illness. In the event of such an occurrence, it is crucial to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to safeguard the health of the affected cat.

Is Cape leadwort toxic to dog?

Cape leadwort is recognized for having a low to moderate toxicity level for dogs. Canines may become poisoned after ingesting significant quantities of this plant. Every part of cape leadwort is toxic, indicating that consuming any segment—be it leaves, stems, flowers, or roots—may result in poisoning. Symptoms that can occur following ingestion by a dog include gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting and diarrhea, listlessness, and potentially more serious reactions depending on the amount consumed. It is essential for dog owners to keep a vigilant eye on their pets and restrict their access to cape leadwort, particularly if their dog tends to nibble on plants. Should a dog accidentally consume cape leadwort, it is crucial to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to ensure appropriate care and management of any resulting symptoms.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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