White Coast Ceanothus

(Ceanothus verrucosus)

White Coast Ceanothus (Ceanothus verrucosus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ceanothus verrucosus, commonly known as White Coast Ceanothus or Barranca Brush, is an evergreen shrub native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral of Southern California and Baja California in Northwest Mexico. It typically grows to about 3 meters in height and has an open, erect form. The stems are gray-brown with a minutely hairy texture and feature wart-like stipules at the base of each leaf, which are small and scale-like. The flowers are white with a distinctive dark center, which is the nectar disk and ovary, blooming in clusters that are highly fragrant, reminiscent of mild Alyssum. Flowering occurs in the spring and sometimes into winter, depending on local climate conditions. The fruit is a small capsule, about half a centimeter long.

White Coast Ceanothus is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It is also used for slope stabilization and habitat restoration projects. This shrub prefers full sun exposure and requires low to medium amounts of water once established. It is not commonly affected by serious pests or diseases, but root rot can occur in poorly drained soils. While it is not known for aggressive roots, it is adapted to fire-prone environments and can resprout after wildfires.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrubs
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Coastal sage scrub and chaparral in Southern California and Baja California in Northwest Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Wart-Stemmed Ceanothus , Coast Lilac , Barranca Brush

Scientific Names: Ceanothus verrucosus

GBIF Accepted Name: Ceanothus verrucosus Nutt.