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Explore the versatility and beauty of Wild Leadwort (Plumbago zeylanica), an understory shrub perfectly suited as a groundcover in shaded settings. An excellent alternative to wedelia and non-native plumbagos, this plant is perfect for stabilizing soil erosion, tolerates heavy pruning and can be confined, formed and managed as a low hedge or allowed to grow freely as a shrub in larger areas.
However, be wary of its sticky fruits that easily adhere to clothing, skin, and pets, potentially causing minor inconvenience near high-traffic locations. Native to parts of the US (Hawaii, Arizona, Texas and Florida), the Leadwort thrives in arid, disturbed areas, sand dunes, and dry forests and shrubland, and can be found in locations ranging from sea level to an altitude of approximately 2,000 feet.
The plant is a beloved host for tiny Ceranus blue butterflies and it's known that its flowers are primarily pollinated by butterflies making it deserving of a place in any warm butterfly garden.
While Wild Leadwort is a frost-sensitive plant and may die back in a freeze, it is resilient and will grow back from its roots. The plant thrives in some shade and its foliage may yellow if exposed to too much sun. For consistent growth, it requires some moisture, especially during drier months. Perfectly at home in the understory of trees and shrubs, it benefits from natural mulch derived from leaf litter, which retains soil moisture and provides protection from the sun.