How to Grow Leadwort Groundcover

Leadwort (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides), or plumbago, is a highly prized, three-season groundcover. Bright green foliage is highlighted by long-lasting, deep blue 3/4-inch blooms in summer. The attractive leaves turn reddish bronze at the first frost, highlighting the autumn garden. In warmer climates, this deciduous ground cover is semi-evergreen.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Leadwort
• Shovel or garden trowel
• Water
• Mulch or other organic material

1. Determine the planting location. Leadwort grows well in Hardiness Zones 5 through 9 when planted in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with peat moss or compost if necessary. It will not tolerate soggy soil. Select a location that receives full sun or light shade.

2. Select the plants. Leadwort should only be planted in spring. It is readily available from nurseries and garden centers in containers or in flats containing transplant plugs.

3. Dig the planting holes. Planting holes should be slightly larger than the container. Carefully remove the leadwort from its container.

4. Plant the leadwort. Position the plant in the hole at the same level it was growing. Transplants should be placed approximately 12 to 18 inches apart. Backfill the original soil making sure to firm around the roots. Mound the soil slightly around each plant. Water transplants deeply.

5. Mulch the planting area. Spread a light layer of mulch around each plant and over the planting area.

Tips & Warnings

• Leadwort dies back in Hardiness Zones 5 and 6 but resumes growing in mid-spring. Mark the location of these late arrivals to avoid damage from early spring gardening.
• Use leadwort under trees and shrubs, in rock gardens or with spring flowering bulbs. Leadwort begins growing when the bulbs are fading. Leadwort grows to a height of 8 to 12 inches.
• While leadwort is an attractive groundcover, keep in mind that it spreads by rhizomes and can become invasive.