Bigpod Ceanothus
(Ceanothus megacarpus)
Bigpod Ceanothus (Ceanothus megacarpus)
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George Williams
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
George Williams
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: George Williams | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: George Williams | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-12-29T09:41:15-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Ceanothus megacarpus, commonly known as Bigpod Ceanothus, is an evergreen shrub native to the chaparral and coastal sage scrub of California, particularly along the Central Coast and the Channel Islands. It can grow over 3 meters tall and is characterized by thick, oval to nearly rectangular leaves. During late winter to early spring, it produces inflorescences that are small but showy, with white to pale lavender flowers featuring dark centers, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The distinctive fruit is a bumpy, spherical red-green capsule, about a centimeter wide, which splits into three valves to release seeds when mature.
Bigpod Ceanothus is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. Its dense growth habit allows it to be used as a screen or hedge. Additionally, it is a vital component of its ecosystem, providing habitat and food for wildlife. When cultivated, it requires minimal water once established, preferring well-drained soils and full sun exposure. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is also important to note that Ceanothus species can be short-lived, often living only 10-15 years, and may not tolerate heavy pruning.CC BY-SA 4.0
Bigpod Ceanothus is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. Its dense growth habit allows it to be used as a screen or hedge. Additionally, it is a vital component of its ecosystem, providing habitat and food for wildlife. When cultivated, it requires minimal water once established, preferring well-drained soils and full sun exposure. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is also important to note that Ceanothus species can be short-lived, often living only 10-15 years, and may not tolerate heavy pruning.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 7-15 feet
- Width: 3-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to chaparral and coastal sage scrub of California, particularly along the Central Coast and the Channel Islands
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Ceanothus megacarpus, Ceanothus megacarpus var. megacarpus, Ceanothus megacarpus subsp. megacarpus, Ceanothus megacarpus var. pendulus,
GBIF Accepted Name: Ceanothus megacarpus Nutt.