Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. griseus (Carmel Ceanothus)

The most commonly planted Ceanothus species in California, Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. griseus (Carmel Ceanothus) is an evergreen shrub that is quite variable in form. Typically low and wide spreading, this shrub is sometimes arborescent with a rounded and upright habit. It is prized for its abundant clusters densely packed with indigo to pale denim blue flowers in spring to early summer. The flowers are so profuse that they literally cover the shrub, transforming the plant into an explosion of blue. The evergreen leaves are ovate to elliptic, glossy dark green, 1-2in. long (2-5 cm), with revolute margins. Attractive to birds and butterflies, the flowers give way to sticky black capsules containing usually 3 seeds. Carmel Ceanothus is endemic to coastal California, where its distribution extends through coastal central California to the southern half of the northern California coast. It is found in a variety of habitats such as exposed bluffs and headlands, steep canyon slopes, and dunes. Easy to grow and fast-growing, it is useful on banks and slopes, in mixed borders, and in coastal gardens. Carmel Ceanothus species has given rise to many outstanding selections including Yankee Point, Diamond Height, Hurricane Point, and Carmel Creeper.

• Grows up to 3-15 ft. tall (90-450 cm) and 4-15 ft. wide (120-450 cm).
• Thrives in fertile, sandy or loamy, well-drained soils in full sun. Appreciates afternoon shade in hot summer areas. Established plants need little summer water. Drought tolerant.
• Excellent choice for beds and borders, wall-side borders, coastal gardens, cottage gardens, Mediterranean gardens, or bank stabilization.
• Prune immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by seed or propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in mid to late summer.
• Keep an eye out for scale insects, and honey fungus.
• Native to California.