Low-growing, Ceanothus americanus (New Jersey Tea) is a bushy, upright, deciduous shrub boasting oval clusters of tiny, fragrant, white flowers in spring. Lasting over a moderately extended period, they rise from the leaf axils at the end of the new shoots. The flowers are a nectar source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees. The foliage of broad-ovate, rich, glossy green leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm), with gray, hairy undersides, may develop yellowish hues in the fall. The dried leaves of this nitrogen-fixing shrub were considered one of the best substitutes for tea during the American Revolution. Extremely adaptable, this North American native species can withstand inhospitable conditions, including infertile, dry soils. A great shrub for use as a groundcover on banks and slopes and a nice addition to a butterfly garden.

• Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm) and 3-5 ft. wide (90-150 cm).
• Thrives in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. Best in sandy loams or rocky soils with excellent drainage. Drought and dry soil tolerant.
• Excellent plant for sunny areas, banks, and slopes, shrub borders, or native plant gardens.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for leaf spots and powdery mildew.
• Easy to grow, this plant is difficult to transplant once established.
• Propagate by seed (cold stratified for one month), semi-hardwood cuttings, and softwood cuttings.
• Native to the eastern U.S. and southeastern Canada, west to Manitoba, Missouri, and Louisiana.