Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. repens

Common name: Californian Lilac (Creeping Blue Blossom)

Description: This low-growing, spreading form of Californian Lilac offers a spectacular display of powder-blue flowers in late spring to early summer, creating clouds of colour that smother the plant. The small, glossy evergreen leaves form a dense, mounding habit that works beautifully as groundcover, cascading over walls, or covering banks. The profusion of tiny flowers is highly attractive to pollinators and creates a stunning visual impact, particularly effective when planted en masse. Once established, this is a remarkably drought-tolerant shrub that thrives in sunny, well-drained positions. The fast-growing nature makes it excellent for quickly covering difficult areas or providing rapid establishment in new gardens.

Other benefits: groundcover habit, fast-growing, spectacular spring flowering, drought tolerant, excellent for banks and slopes

Wildlife attraction: bees, butterflies, pollinators

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 1m x 2.5m

Position: full sun essential; requires a warm, sheltered position

Soil pH: prefers neutral to slightly acidic conditions; dislikes very alkaline soils

Moisture: low to moderate watering required; drought tolerant once established; must have excellent drainage

Winter hardiness: hardy to -10°C; benefits from shelter from cold winds