Ceratostigma willmottianum Sapphire Ring

The Ceratostigma willmottianum 'Sapphire Ring' is a small compact shrub with a long-lasting cobalt blue flowering, forming a superb contrast with the golden yellow foliage. Suitable for borders and containers in warm and sheltered locations.

Also known as "Leadwort" or "Willmott's Plumbago", the Ceratostigma willmottiae 'Sapphire Ring' is a small shrub with a flexible habit, compact and well-branched, reaching a height of about 60 to 80 cm (23.6 to 31.5 in) and a bit more in width. The 'Sapphire Ring' variety has bright golden-yellow leaves that are oval-shaped and covered with hair on both sides. This helps the shrub to survive in hot temperatures. From July to the first frost, it produces numerous delicate, light blue flowers with five petals each. During autumn, the leaves turn reddish-purple, which creates more contrast.

It requires full sun exposure and a perfectly drained soil. It is hardy down to -8 to -10°C (17.6 to 14 °F), so it needs winter protection in colder areas. It can be easily grown in containers, which allows it to be sheltered in a cold greenhouse for the winter. It looks stunning on a south-facing terrace with annuals, also consider it to bring a "youthful touch" to a sunny rockery!

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