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Feltleaf ceanothus, Lilac of California, Ceanothus arboreus

small tree of the family Rhamnaceae (the same family: Buckthorn, Nerprun)

Etymology: its name "Lilac of California" reminds its origin and the resemblance of its flowers to those of the lilac (as the "lilac of India").
Origin: West of North America.

Habitat: Ceanothus prefers well-drained soil, slightly calcareous. They tolerate drought, wind and spray. They appreciate a sunny situation or mi shade, mainly varieties with persistent foliage.
Hardiness: zone 8. Varieties with persistent foliage are less tolerant in cold.
Lifespan: 18 years.
Rate of Growth: fast.
Height: 6 m tall.
Shape: upright.
Foliage: Ceanothus with foliage deciduous is met:
Ceanothus dentatus: the margin of its leaves is pinked. It has a shrubby form and does not exceed 2 m tall.
Ceanothus gloriosus
and ceanothus with persistent foliage:
Ceanothus arboreus
Ceanothus divergens
Ceanothus griseus
Ceanothus impressus
Ceanothus intergerrimus
Ceanothus regret
Ceanothus thyrsiflorus
Ceanothus tomentosus

The leaves are small (5 cm long), narrow, elliptical, with very short petiole, glossy dark green on top, lighter underneath..
Flowers in May-June. They are small and grouped in dense cymes of 2 cm. Their colour blue supported in dark blue is remarkable. Stamens are salient and of cream colour. They are slightly fragrant and melliferous.
Fruits clusters of small capsules (mm) in three valves.
Use: ceanothus is used in hedge or isolated.
Advices of planting and of maintenance:
the ceanothus is planted in spring.
Cuttings occurs in late summer in a sandy texture. It can be cut immediately after flowering, in July.

 
 
 

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