Red Plumbago, Scarlet Plumbago

plumbago indica

Also known as: ["Indian Leadwort","Red Leadwort"]

Family: Plumbaginaceae Genus: Plumbago Category: Flowers

Overview

A tropical shrub known for its vibrant red flowers and spreading growth habit.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Plumbaginales
Family: Plumbaginaceae
Genus: Plumbago
Botanical Name: Plumbago indica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sheltered area
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); partial shade in intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually; protect from harsh midday sun; move indoors if outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips (overwatering); stunted growth (nutrient deficiency); mold on soil surface (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer; ensure unobstructed light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in heat.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), indirect light

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss

Hormone

Recommended (rooting powder or gel)

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems; pinch tips for bushier growth

Pruning Plan

Shape plant; encourage bushier growth; remove dead or weak stems

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider)

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the base of the plant without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback; increases susceptibility to root rot.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch; wilting despite moist soil; reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); dilute to half strength; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Plumbago indica may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Plumbago indica can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Plumbago indica may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Plumbago indica is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Plumbago indica. The compound plumbagin can cause irritation in the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Plumbago indica can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of plumbagin. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Plumbago indica contains plumbagin, a compound that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized irritation and discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Wash hands after handling the plant to prevent skin irritation.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Plumbago indica toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Plumbago indica?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Plumbago indica attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Plumbaginaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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