Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Ceanothus arboreus or Island ceanothus

The genus Ceanothus, family Rhamnaceae, includes 50 species of shrubs and small trees native to northern and central America. Some species are: Ceanothus arboreus, Ceanothus thyrsiflorus, Ceanothus americanus, Ceanothus griseus, Ceanothus delilianus, Ceanothus coeruleus, Ceanothus rigidus, Ceanothus papillosus.

Common names: Feltleaf ceanothus, Island ceanothus, Island mountain lilac. This species is native to California.

They are evergreen shrubs with a spreading habit that reach 8 meters (26.24 feet) in height. The leaves are rounded and dark green in color. The abundant and scented blue flowers are very decorative. They bloom from mid spring to early summer.

They are used for windbreak screens, in small groups or as isolated specimens in the garden. With its flowers, floral decorations can be made.

Ceanothus arboreus can grow in full sun or very light shade exposures; they resist sporadic low intensity frosts.

The ideal soil can be well-drained garden soil with coarse sand and organic matter (compost, manure, or humus). The transplanting or planting is done in autumn or early spring.

Water moderately, waiting for the soil to dry out. They resist several days of drought.

Fertilize with manure or compost in spring or fall.

Prune after flowering to remove wilted flowers and dry branches. Prune young specimens to maintain a compact appearance.

They are fast-growing shrubs resistant to the usual pests and diseases; they are sensitive to excessive humidity.

They propagate by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings in summer or autumn.

Images of the shrub Ceanothus arboreus or Island ceanothus