Abyssinian Plumbago
(Ceratostigma abyssinicum)
Abyssinian Plumbago (Ceratostigma abyssinicum)
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Leonora (Ellie) Enking
CC BY-SA 2.0
Image By:
Leonora (Ellie) Enking
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Leonora (Ellie) Enking | License Type: CC BY-SA 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: wallygrom | Publisher: Flickr |



Estimated Native Range
Summary
Ceratostigma abyssinicum, commonly known as Abyssinian Plumbago, is a perennial herb often treated as an evergreen shrub in its native habitat, which includes the highland scrub and rocky outcrops of Eastern Africa, particularly Ethiopia. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). The plant has a bushy habit with wiry stems and green, ovate leaves that may turn red or purple in cooler temperatures. The striking blue flowers, which bloom in the summer, are a notable feature, adding a splash of color to the garden landscape.
Abyssinian Plumbago is valued for its vibrant blue flowers and its ability to adapt to a range of garden conditions. It is used for border planting, as a ground cover, or in rock gardens due to its low-growing, spreading nature. This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade, and it requires medium amounts of water with well-drained soil. While it is generally easy to maintain, it may need protection from frost in colder climates. In warmer regions, it can be semi-evergreen, retaining some foliage throughout the year.CC BY-SA 4.0
Abyssinian Plumbago is valued for its vibrant blue flowers and its ability to adapt to a range of garden conditions. It is used for border planting, as a ground cover, or in rock gardens due to its low-growing, spreading nature. This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade, and it requires medium amounts of water with well-drained soil. While it is generally easy to maintain, it may need protection from frost in colder climates. In warmer regions, it can be semi-evergreen, retaining some foliage throughout the year.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Blue
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Highland scrub and rocky outcrops of Eastern Africa, particularly Ethiopia
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Ceratostigma abyssinicum, Ceratostigma speciosum, Valoradia abyssinica, Plumbago eglandulosa, Plumbago glandulosa,
GBIF Accepted Name: Ceratostigma abyssinicum (Hochst.) Asch.