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Description
Ceanothus Crassifolius, commonly known as the Hoary-leaved Ceanothus, is a beautiful evergreen shrub native to California. It is a member of the Rhamnaceae family and is known for its stunning blue flowers that bloom in the spring. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide and has a moderate growth rate.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Ceanothus |
Appearance
The Hoary-leaved Ceanothus has thick, leathery leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a grayish appearance. The leaves are ovate to elliptical in shape and measure 1-3 inches long. The flowers are small and sky blue in color, clustered together in dense panicles that measure 3-6 inches long. The plant blooms from March to May and produces small, dry capsules that contain seeds.
Care Guide
The Hoary-leaved Ceanothus is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hoary-leaved Ceanothus is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly draining. Leaf spot and powdery mildew can also occur if the plant is grown in shady, humid conditions.
Habitat
The Hoary-leaved Ceanothus is native to California and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. It is often used in landscaping and is a popular choice for native gardens and naturalistic landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Hoary-leaved Ceanothus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the Hoary-leaved Ceanothus is deer-resistant.
Q: Can the Hoary-leaved Ceanothus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Hoary-leaved Ceanothus can be grown in a container, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.
Q: When is the best time to prune the Hoary-leaved Ceanothus?
A: The Hoary-leaved Ceanothus should be pruned after it has finished blooming in the spring.
Q: Does the Hoary-leaved Ceanothus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Hoary-leaved Ceanothus is a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Ceanothus thyrsiflorus
- Ceanothus gloriosus
- Ceanothus impressus
- Ceanothus integerrimus
References
- “Ceanothus crassifolius.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 21 July 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/ceanothus-crassifolius
- “Ceanothus crassifolius.” Calflora. Accessed 21 July 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Ceanothus+crassifolius
- “Hoary-leaved Ceanothus.” California Native Plant Society. Accessed 21 July 2021. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/gardening-resources/landscaping-resources/hoary-leaved-ceanothus
