Plumbago auriculata

Cape plumbago

In spite of the potential dangers associated with this plant, it makes a gorgeous low hedge with its profuse sky-blue blooms.

Although compounds in leadwort have been found to be medicinal, the plant is a blistering irritant and medicinal application of the plant over large areas of the body has resulted in death, so needless to say caution is in order for any use of this plant. In its native Africa, the plant is used to treat warts, broken bones and wounds, and is taken as a snuff for headaches and to ward off bad dreams. Natives also use the plant to ward off lightning by placing a stem in their thatch roofs.

The sticky, gland-tipped hairs on the bottoms of plumbago flowers have led to their use by children as “earrings.” The seeds develop at the bottom of the flowers, so it seems the sticky glands help aid in the dispersal of the seeds by attaching to passers-by.

The plant’s common name “leadwort” has been attributed to either an old belief about its ability to cure lead poisoning or because handling the roots can turn hands a “lead” color. Flowers and leaves are used in Africa to create dyes for textiles; a compound in the plant called plumbagin produces a yellow color when plant extracts are treated with acid.

As far as aesthetics go, this is one of my favorite plants. It is also pretty easy to care for: give the plant some well-drained soil and a good amount of sun and you'll be rewarded with a profusion of sky-blue flowers. Plumbago like to be cut back periodically; this keeps its form tight and also stimulates more flower production.