Ceratostigma willmottianum

Common name: Chinese Plumbago

Description: This award-winning deciduous shrub provides spectacular late-season colour when most other plants are finishing their display. The small, diamond-shaped bristly green leaves turn brilliant red and orange in autumn, creating a stunning backdrop for the intense cobalt-blue flowers that appear from late summer through to the first frosts. The five-petalled flowers, resembling small blue pinwheels, are produced in terminal clusters on gracefully arching reddish-brown stems. This combination of vivid blue flowers against fiery autumn foliage creates one of the most striking displays in the autumn garden.

Other benefits: exceptional autumn colour combination, late-season flowers, deer resistant, drought tolerant once established, RHS Award of Garden Merit

Wildlife attraction: late nectar source for bees, butterflies, beneficial insects when few other flowers available

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 1m x 1m

Position: full sun to partial shade; sheltered from cold winds

Soil pH: adaptable but prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil

Moisture: moderate water requirements; drought tolerant once established; prefers well-drained soil

Winter hardiness: hardy to -15°C