Landscape Uses
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South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Plumbago is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Drought tolerant once established (12 months). Water 2-3x per week during establishment. After establishment, irrigation only during extended dry spells. Avoid overwatering — root rot in poorly drained or chronically wet soils. No supplemental irrigation needed in South Florida's rainy season.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Balanced slow-release fertilizer 8-2-12 or blooming-plant formula
Schedule: February and August. Light application of balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 3–8 ft
- Mature Width
- 4–8 ft
- Growth Rate
- fast
- Water Demand
- 2/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida
- Installed Cost
- $
- USDA Zones
- 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 4/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Plumbago at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Plumbago grow in South Florida?
Plumbago has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Plumbago safe for pets?
Plumbago is not safe for pets. Mildly toxic — contact causes skin irritation (sticky stems/sap) and ingestion may cause mild GI upset in dogs and cats. Not a high-risk plant but advise monitoring with pets.
How much water does Plumbago need in South Florida?
Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), Plumbago is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Plumbago tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Plumbago has moderate salt tolerance (6/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Plumbago available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Plumbago is classified as: allowed. Allowed.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Allowed. Not on prohibited list.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Allowed. Standard HOA accent plant.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Allowed. Popular in Palm Beach HOA communities.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Allowed. Common in Naples area residential and commercial landscapes.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Allowed. Good salt tolerance makes it acceptable for most Keys inland locations.
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
Need a Spec Sheet?
Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.
Ask about Plumbago
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