- **Type**: Evergreen shrub (in warm climates) or tender perennial

- **Height**: 3 to 8 feet (0.9 to 2.4 meters), can reach 10 feet (3 meters) when trained as a vine

- **Width**: 4 to 10 feet (1.2 to 3 meters), depending on pruning and support

- **Growth Habit**: Sprawling, arching, or climbing with support; forms a weeping mound if untrellised

- **Foliage**:

- Oval, glossy, dark green leaves, 1 to 3 inches long (2.5 to 7.5 cm)

- Evergreen in frost-free zones; may die back in colder climates

- **Flowers**:

- Clusters of deep blue to navy blue, five-petaled, star-shaped blooms

- About 0.75 to 1 inch across (2 to 2.5 cm)

- Bloom season: Early spring to late fall (March to November), year-round in mild climates

- Mildly fragrant, attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

- **Fruit**:

- Small, barbed capsules, not ornamentally significant

- **Light**: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best flowering; tolerates partial shade

- **Soil**:

- Well-drained, fertile; adapts to sandy or loamy soils

- Neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.0 to 7.5)

- **Watering**: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established, water regularly during first year

- **Hardiness**: USDA Zones 8 to 11 (10°F or -12°C; may die back at 20°F but regrows from roots)

- **Wildlife**: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds; deer-resistant

- **Care**:

- Prune in late winter or early spring to shape or encourage growth

- Fertilize with a balanced mix (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring and summer

- Train on a trellis or wall if desired; otherwise, let it mound naturally

- **Pests/Diseases**:

- Generally pest-free; may see whiteflies, spider mites, or mealybugs indoors

- Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil

- **Uses**: Hedge, groundcover, container plant, trellis climber, or cascading accent

- **Growth Rate**: Fast; can grow 1 to 2 feet per year under good conditions

The Dark Blue Plumbago’s vivid blue flowers and versatile growth make it a knockout for adding tropical flair or structure to sunny gardens. Let me know if you’d like more care tips or planting ideas!