California Lilacs (Ceanothus spp) are some of our most fragrant and colorful native shrubs. Evergreen and very drought tolerant, a sure way to kill your ceanothus is to water it! Ceanothus includes about 55 evergreen and deciduous creepers, shrubs and small trees growing wild throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico south to Guatemala. Most Ceanothus are frost tender and are mainly grown for their fluffy clusters of white, pink, or blue flowers. A ceanothus in bloom is one of the sure signs that spring is on its way. Indeed, they are an important source of nectar and pollen for early bees. Ceanothus leaves can range from under 1/2" (usually dark and stiff) to over 2 to 3 inches long (larger leaves are often lighter and softer, which deer love). This plant can be propagated by softwood cuttings in the summer. Ceanothus can deal with sun and drought, but are also happy with a bit of shade.
Visit our Town Flora page for more information about plants that thrive locally.
