Ceanothus Care and Propagation

Ceanothus is an evergreen or deciduous shrub or small tree. They flower either in late spring or mid to late summer depending on the variety.

They are often called California Lilacs because the flowers of some varieties are similar to the Lilac Tree (syringa), and ceanothus do originate form California.

The flowers are most noted for the varieties which produce masses of deep blue flowers. But they also come with pink or white flowers.

Quick growing, Ceanothus are great shrubs for filling gaps in a few years. We highly recommend this beautiful shrub.

Key Ceanothus Facts

Botanical Name Ceanothus

Common Name California Lilac

Type Deciduous or evergreen shrub; spring or summer flowering.

Size
(after 5 years) Varies considerably depending on the variety

Position Full sun.

Soil Light and well-drained

Hardy Yes but depends on the variety

Flower Blue, pink or white

Foliage Dark green

Scent No

Season of
Interest Spring or summer depending on the variety.

Propagate Semi-ripe cuttings in mid July, click here for semi-ripe cutting article.

Ceanothus are frost hardy but not a deep frost. However, if they are given a warm, sheltered and sunny position they will produce a magnificent flower display and lovely glossy deep green leaves.

Which Variety of Ceanothus?
We rate these three Ceanothus highly. Click the pictures to enlarge them.

Ceanothus Puget Blue
The blue flowers cover this beautiful shrub from early to late spring.

Plant in a protected sunny position on a neutral to alkaline soil. This is one of the best Ceanothus

Click here for more information if you want buy Ceanothus Puget Blue online in the UK.

Ceanothus thyrsiflorus Skylark
The classic ceanothus with deep blue massed flowers. The picture on the left is proof that ceanothus can be trained if you persevere. Click the picture to enlarge it and see it in all it's glory!

Click here for more information if you want buy Ceanothus thyrsiflorus Skylark online in the UK.

Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. repens
Very easy to grow but stunning in early to late Spring. This is a mound forming Ceanothus which doesn't suffer too much from hard frosts.

Click here for more information if you want buy Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. repens online in the UK.

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT CEANOTHUS PAGE
(how to care, plant and prune a ceanothus)

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