Re: [SG] Leadwort

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• To: s*@MAELSTROM.STJOHNS.EDU
• Subject: Re: [SG] Leadwort
• From: "* K* R* <p*@RADIKS.NET>
• Date: Sun, 6 Sep 1998 13:52:37 -0500
• References: <Pine.HPP.3.96.980904202109.20582A-100000@hamlet.ucs.indiana.edu>

Roberta Diehl wrote:
>
> Kathleen, I don't know if Leadwort WILL grow in shade. I didn't think so,
> and apparently Gene Bush doesn't either. We're waiting for Harry Dewey to
> answer our pleas for more info. E.g., where does he live?? As I said, I
> kept trying it in shade and it kept dying on me. Finally I put it where it
> gets maybe half a day of sun, and it does OK, but not not spectacularly.
>
> It's been years since I got mine so I'm not sure, but think they came from
> Bluestone Perennials. You don't see them around everywhere, that's for
> sure! One of the good--really good--nurseries up there should have it. You
> might give Karen Robbins a call--Avon Perennial Nursery in Avon, west of
> you. If you haven't been out there, give yourself a treat and GO!
>
> Bobbi Diehl
> On Fri, 4 Sep 1998, Kathleen A. Robertson wrote:
>
> > Bobbi,
> > I am fascinated by this leadwort plant. I think i have the ideal shady
> > spot for it.. Do you know where I can get a couple of pots locally?  or,
> > maybe ole Clyde would know and
> > drop in a note or six!!
> >
> > Love this list!!!
> >
> > Kathycakes
> > Zone 5
> >


To all:

I am growing Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (Leadwort) in a mostly shady,
dry garden with filtered light and about two hours of direct, full sun
in zone 4b. It is beautiful now, with 1/2" gorgeous blue flowers, and
most customers want it.  My supplier describes the plant as follows:  "A
beautiful groundcover once established, with glossy foliage that turns
red in autumn and gentian-blue blooms in late summer. It performs well
in a moist, sunny spot or in partial shade.  Officially the hardiness is
zones 6-9, but it will often overwinter to zone 5 with mulch."

I can add that I previously grew it in another garden (zone 5a) with
full sun and it spread like crazy.  It is a plant with growth habit like
Houttunia chordata "Chameleon".  Plant it in a sunny, moist area and it
is invasive.  Give it less sun and less moisture and it will behave.

The old adage, "Right plant, right place.", works again.

Phyllis Randall
Oakcrest Gardens
Glenwood, Iowa
Zone 4b

• References:
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