Lithodora (Lithodora spp. )
If you notice aphids, treat the plant with insecticidal soap spray. Otherwise, pests are usually not a problem.
What Is Lithodora – Learn About The Care Of Lithodora In Gardens
What is Lithodora? Botanically known as Lithodora diffusa, this plant is a hardy groundcover that produces masses of tiny, intensely blue, star-shaped flowers from late spring throughout most of summer. Want to know more about growing Lithodora groundcover? Read on to find out.
Lithodora Plant Information
Lithodora planted in gardens reaches heights of only 6 to 10 inches (15-25 cm.), but a single plant can eventually spread 24 to 36 inches (61-91 cm.). You can easily grow Lithodora in gardens in USDA plant hardiness zones 6 through 10. In the more southern ranges, the dense covering of narrow, dark green leaves remains green year-round.
Lithodora groundcover is a great choice for rock gardens. It also works well in window boxes or containers.
Lithodora is relatively easy to find in garden centers. Otherwise, plant Lithodora seeds directly in the garden, or start them indoors a few weeks ahead of time. You can also propagate cuttings from established plants in mid to late summer.
Growing Lithodora Groundcover
Acidic, well-drained soil is best for growing Lithodora in gardens. Sandy soil is fine, but the plant won’t tolerate heavy clay soil.
Although Lithodora thrives in full sunlight, partial shade isn’t a problem. Afternoon shade is best in hot climates.
As for the care of Lithodora, water the plant regularly and don’t allow the soil to become bone dry. However, beware of overwatering and avoid soggy, waterlogged soil.
Apply mulch in autumn if you live in a cooler region. Prune Lithodora lightly if it looks straggly, or if the leaves are damaged by winter cold.
Lithodora generally requires no fertilizer unless the leaves turn pale greenish yellow. If this occurs, provide a fertilizer for rhododendron, azalea, or other acid-loving plants in late winter or very early spring.
If you notice aphids, treat the plant with insecticidal soap spray. Otherwise, pests are usually not a problem.
Lithodora (Lithodora spp.)
Perfect for rock gardens or small slopes, lithodora grows only 6 to 8 inches tall and develops dainty, deep green leaves covered in starry blue flowers from late spring to summer. This charming evergreen groundcover forms a low, spreading mound that can stretch 3 feet wide. It’s a fantastic plant to grow along pathways or patios where you can enjoy the rich, true-blue color. Or, make maintenance easy around your mailbox by planting a bed of lithodora around it. Lithodora is also deer resistant and evergreen in the warmer parts of its range. Zones 6-9
Lithodora Questions?
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Lithodora Growing Instructions
Plant lithodora in a sunny or partially sunny location with well-drained soil. The plant doesn’t like to sit in wet soil, but it also likes a regular drink of water when the weather gets hot so water whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. In warmer regions of the country, plant lithodora in partial sun to protect it from afternoon heat.
- Water Medium water needs
- Light Outside: Part sun Outside: Sun
- Colors Blue
- Special Features Attracts butterflies Deer/rabbit resistant Groundcover
Complement your Lithodora
Blue Star Creeper
Create a carpet of blue with Blue Star Creeper and Lithodora in the same bed.
Phlox, Creeping
Creeping Phlox has a similar habit to Lithodora but blooms a bit earlier so pair them for a constant supply of color.
Armeria
With similar cultural needs, Armeria makes a good companion for Lithodora.
Our favorite varieties
Grace Ward
Lithodora diffusa ‘Grace Ward’
Grace Ward lithodora shows off some of the bluest flowers you’ll find on any garden plant. It blooms in spring, practically covering its evergreen foliage with electric-blue flowers. This variety grows 6 inches tall and 36 inches wide. Zones 6-9
White Star
Lithodora diffusa ‘White Star’
White Star lithodora differs from other varieties because of its showy bicolor flowers. Each soft blue bloom has an eye-catching white star in it! This selection grows 6 inches tall and 24 inches wide. Zones 6-9
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