Lithodora diffusa 'Grace Ward' (Lithodora)

If you want true gentian blue in your garden without the fussiness of actual gentians, Lithodora 'Grace Ward' is your answer. This low, spreading groundcover smothers itself in deep cobalt-blue flowers from late spring into early summer, a color so saturated it almost looks artificial against the dark, narrow evergreen leaves. Mature plants spread three to four feet wide while staying well under a foot tall, creating a carpet effect that works beautifully at the front of a border, spilling over a retaining wall, or cascading down a sunny slope.

Lithodora is a plant of the Mediterranean coast by origin, and it performs best in conditions that reflect that heritage: full sun to light shade, excellent drainage, and soil on the acidic side. The Oregon coast's naturally acidic soils are a good match, though soggy winter conditions can cause trouble, so good drainage is non-negotiable. Once established, it tolerates dry spells with reasonable grace and earns its keep as a deer-resistant, low-maintenance evergreen with outstanding spring color.

'Grace Ward' is considered the finest cultivar of the species, selected for especially vivid flower color and reliable spreading habit.