This prostrate/groundcover Ceanothus is a popular evergreen shrub beloved for its capacity to densely cover wide swaths of open ground, especially on tricky spots like banks, parking strips, or over rock walls. The broadleaf evergreen foliage is glossy with heavily toothed margins. Because the stems can root where they touch soil, this is a great option for surface-soil erosion control. It grows quickly to 3-5 ft wide by only 1 ft tall -- occasionally taller, but you can shear it back after blooming if it grows too tall.
In springtime, the violet-blue flowers begin covering the foliage in blossoms, attracting butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects. Best in full sun, but with protection from direct exposure to subfreezing winds, as it is hardy to Zone 8; in our area, best in the warmer microclimates and landscapes near saltwater. It"s not fussy about soil type as long as it has good drainage, as it will not tolerate being waterlogged, especially during the colder months. Drought tolerant once established, but a little summer water during establishment will create a stronger plant and faster growth.
This prostrate/groundcover Ceanothus is a popular evergreen shrub beloved for its capacity to densely cover wide swaths of open ground, especially on tricky spots like banks, parking strips, or over rock walls. The broadleaf evergreen foliage is glossy with heavily toothed margins. Because the stems can root where they touch soil, this is a great option for surface-soil erosion control. It grows quickly to 3-5 ft wide by only 1 ft tall -- occasionally taller, but you can shear it back after blooming if it grows too tall.
In springtime, the violet-blue flowers begin covering the foliage in blossoms, attracting butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects. Best in full sun, but with protection from direct exposure to subfreezing winds, as it is hardy to Zone 8; in our area, best in the warmer microclimates and landscapes near saltwater. It"s not fussy about soil type as long as it has good drainage, as it will not tolerate being waterlogged, especially during the colder months. Drought tolerant once established, but a little summer water during establishment will create a stronger plant and faster growth.
