Fauna
Plant

Blue Plumbago

Plumbago auriculata

Also known as Cape Leadwort, Cape Plumbago, Sky Flower

Blue plumbago is a sprawling evergreen shrub celebrated for its dense clusters of phlox-like, sky-blue flowers that bloom almost continuously in warm climates. Native to South African scrublands, its stems carry glandular calyces that secrete a sticky fluid, efficiently catching insects and helping seeds adhere to passing animals for dispersal. It serves as a vital nectar source for long-tongued bees and larvae host plant for various blue butterfly species.

FloweringEvergreenShrub
Blue Plumbago reference1 / 7
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthesis)
ThreatsSevere frost, habitat alteration in native scrublands
HabitatsThicketered scrub, coastal bushveld, dry valleys, gardens, urban hedges
Life span10–20 years
Classification
  1. OrderCaryophyllales
  2. FamilyPlumbaginaceae
  3. GenusPlumbago
  4. SpeciesPlumbago auriculata
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Sap contains plumbagin which can cause mild skin irritation; wear gloves when heavy pruning.
Why it is dangerous
Stems and leaves contain plumbagin, a chemical compound that can trigger contact dermatitis or localized skin blistering.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by five-petaled sky-blue flowers and sticky glandular calyces beneath each bloom.
What to do
Wear lightweight gardening gloves and long sleeves when clearing or pruning mature branches.
Responsible observation
  • Sunlight exposure: Plant in full sun to encourage lush foliage and maximum flowering.
  • Pruning advice: Trim back hard in late winter or early spring to maintain a manageable shape.
  • Safety tip: Wear garden gloves during heavy trimming to avoid skin contact with sap.
Related species
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