Ceratostigma has 8 species of perennial plants and shrubs. These are curly, evergreen or deciduous plants. They grow in various regions of Southeast Asia, China, Tibet. To decorate the garden, the three types described below are best suited.
Ceratostigma plumbaginoid (C. Plumbaginoides)
Creeping, sod-like shrub 25-30 cm high. Leaves of medium size, oval in shape, with barely noticeable pubescence. In spring and summer, green from above, on the back side gray-green. It blooms very beautifully (August-September). Against the background of bright orange and copper leaves, small, blue flowers bloom. They are collected in small inflorescences and are located on the tops of the shoots.
Suitable for decorating gardens. It is used in the form of luxurious grassy carpets, as well as for decorating compositions of stone, territories near paths.
Ceratostigma Wilmott (C. Willmottianum)
Creeping shrub grows up to 1 m in height. Leaves up to 5 cm long, elongated, green. Their edges are decorated with a crimson edge. Autumn leaves turn red. Flowering period: August-September. The flowers are small, pale blue, with a red middle. Spike inflorescences are located at the ends of shoots.
In mysterious and distant Tibet, the plant is still considered a symbol of wisdom. Very popular in Europe. Planted in private gardens, next to houses, in city squares and parks.
Ear Ceratostigma (C. Auriculata)
Ground cover plant, up to 35 cm high. The flowers are blue, small, collected in racemose inflorescences. Leaflets are small, delicate, light green in color.
This species is ideal for flower beds and growing in pots. In February-March, the plant needs to be sown for seedlings. After about 3 weeks, seedlings will appear, which will then be transplanted.
Care and maintenance
Ceratostigma does not grow well in dark and humid places. The best option - open sunny areas of the garden. Loves when dry and warm.
Clay soil is contraindicated. A slightly moist, with good drainage, light soil is suitable for the plant. The fertility of the earth is moderate, top dressing is in small quantities.
If there is little rainfall in the warm season, the plant needs moderate watering.
Reproduction is carried out in spring or autumn using layering or lateral processes. If you sow seeds, then the plant will bloom only the next year. Young plants should be cleaned for the winter in a cool (+ 10 ° C) room. Before planting, loosen the soil very well. Plant the plant carefully: it has a very delicate root system.
For planting, small areas located on the slopes, on the south side of the trees, along the solar walls should be distinguished. Most importantly, buildings and trees do not cover the sun. In addition to open areas, it is recommended to plant a plant in borders, mixborders.
The best "neighbor" of ceratostigma is euphorbia, as well as coniferous trees and shrubs (juniper, thuja, etc.). Pruning plants need in the spring, immediately after the snow melts.
The most common diseases are powdery mildew. Ceratostigma is resistant to pests.
The plant does not like frosts very much, can withstand temperature drops to -15 ° C. In Siberia and northern latitudes, it is recommended to plant in pots. At the first frost, clean them in a room with a temperature of + 10 ° C.
In milder climates, cover with a cap made of wire and polyethylene for the winter. Wrap on top with various natural materials.
