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Inland Ceanothus Wikimedia Commons
Rhamnaceae

Inland Ceanothus

Ceanothus oliganthus

Wild California spirit.

Family
Rhamnaceae
Genus
Ceanothus
Native to
California, Baja California, Western North America
Bloom season
Spring
Type
evergreen shrub
Height
150-400 cm
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
well-drained, rocky
Water
low
Hardiness
8-10
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Ceanothus species are often called California lilac, though they are not related to true lilacs.
  • The roots host nitrogen-fixing bacteria, allowing the plant to thrive in nutrient-poor soils.
  • Inland ceanothus is fire-adapted and its seeds actually require fire or heat to germinate.
  • The flowers produce a soapy lather when crushed with water and were used as soap by Native Americans.
  • Ceanothus shrubs are among the most important nectar sources for native California butterflies.

Color meanings

0

freedom

1

wildness

2

natural beauty

Uses

  • native landscaping
  • erosion control
  • wildlife habitat
  • drought-tolerant gardens