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(Ceanothus oliganthus)
Hairy Ceanothus (Ceanothus oliganthus)
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Dawn Endico
CC BY-SA 2.0
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Dawn Endico
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Dawn Endico | License Type: CC BY-SA 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/ | Uploader: Dawn Endico | Publisher: Flickr |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Ceanothus oliganthus, commonly known as Hairy Ceanothus, is an evergreen shrub native to the chaparral and coastal sage scrub of California, as well as the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. It can grow to a height of approximately 3 meters and is known for its rigid, erect stature. The leaves are small, dark green, and have a hairy texture, which is the origin of its common name. The inflorescences are clusters of tiny, intensely blue or purple flowers that bloom profusely from April to May, attracting a variety of pollinators including bees and butterflies.
Hairy Ceanothus is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and native plant landscapes. It is often used for slope stabilization, habitat restoration, and as an ornamental shrub in residential gardens. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is adaptable to a range of light conditions. It requires minimal irrigation once established and is best suited to well-drained soils. This species is also appreciated for its potential in creating natural hedges or screens. However, gardeners should be aware that it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered and may attract pests such as aphids and scale insects.CC BY-SA 4.0
Hairy Ceanothus is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and native plant landscapes. It is often used for slope stabilization, habitat restoration, and as an ornamental shrub in residential gardens. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is adaptable to a range of light conditions. It requires minimal irrigation once established and is best suited to well-drained soils. This species is also appreciated for its potential in creating natural hedges or screens. However, gardeners should be aware that it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered and may attract pests such as aphids and scale insects.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 6-12 feet
- Width: 6-12 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Blue, Purple, White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and the foothills of the Sierra Nevada
Other Names
Common Names: Hairy-Leaf Ceanothus
Scientific Names: , Ceanothus oliganthus, Ceanothus oliganthus var. oliganthus, Ceanothus oliganthus subsp. oliganthus, Ceanothus oliganthus var. orcuttii, Ceanothus divaricatus, Ceanothus hirsutus, Ceanothus orcuttii, Ceanothus azureus, Ceanothus hirsutus var. orcuttii,
GBIF Accepted Name: Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt.