Ceratostigma

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides, the plumbago or leadwort, is a late-awakening but ultimately outstanding ground cover perennial for Martha's Vineyard's full-sun, well-drained border positions, producing a prolonged display of vivid cobalt-blue flowers from August through October that is unmatched in its color intensity by any other perennial in the late-season island palette. It thrives in the lean, sandy, well-drained soils of coastal garden borders throughout Edgartown and Vineyard Haven and is notably tolerant of the heat, drought, and occasional salt air influence of near-coastal garden environments. The glossy foliage turns rich crimson in autumn, extending ornamental interest into November and providing one of the most satisfying seasonal transitions available in the perennial ground cover palette.

Deer resistance is reliable. Estate Care professionals always mark plumbago locations clearly in spring since it is extremely slow to emerge from dormancy, a habit that leads to accidental oveplanting if its eventual coverage is not anticipated in the seasonal planting calendar.