White Leadwort
plumbago zeylanica
Also known as: ["White Plumbago","Winged Leadwort"]
Overview
A perennial shrub with white, phlox-like flowers and glossy green leaves, native to tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Plumbaginales |
| Family: | Plumbaginaceae |
| Genus: | Plumbago |
| Botanical Name: | Plumbago zeylanica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot or container in a sunny patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; for indoor plants, place near east or west-facing windows; outdoor plants benefit from dappled shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cool conditions.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes, avoid heavy clay soils, topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions, ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); sensitive to cold drafts and frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes, protect from frost, maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune selectively, remove dead/diseased parts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in response to extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage or death if prolonged.
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location, protect from drafts, use a space heater if necessary, avoid watering excessively in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting or a humidifier, ensure adequate watering, avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before application, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Plumbago zeylanica. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, which may require prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Plumbago zeylanica can lead to more severe toxic effects due to their smaller body size and different metabolic processes. The plumbagin content can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPlumbago zeylanica contains plumbagin, a naphthoquinone compound that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can lead to discomfort and distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Plumbago zeylanica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Plumbago zeylanica?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Plumbago zeylanica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plumbaginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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