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Description
Ceanothus Caeruleus, commonly known as Blue Blossom, is a shrub native to California. It belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its lovely blue flowers that bloom in the spring. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide, making it an ideal choice for hedges or borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Ceanothus |
Appearance
Ceanothus Caeruleus has glossy, dark green leaves that are 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The leaves are oval in shape and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant produces clusters of small, blue flowers that are about 0.25 inches wide. The flowers bloom in the spring and early summer and are highly fragrant, making them a popular choice for pollinators.
Care Guide
To care for Ceanothus Caeruleus, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. However, it is important to water it deeply during dry spells to ensure proper growth. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth.Ceanothus Caeruleus is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures. To protect the plant from cold temperatures, cover it with a frost blanket or burlap during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ceanothus Caeruleus is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including scale insects and powdery mildew. Scale insects can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Ceanothus Caeruleus is native to California and can be found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. The plant is well-suited to dry, rocky soils and can tolerate both coastal and inland conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Ceanothus Caeruleus?
A: Ceanothus Caeruleus is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. However, it is important to water it deeply during dry spells to ensure proper growth.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Ceanothus Caeruleus?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ceanothus Caeruleus?
A: Ceanothus Caeruleus is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Q: How can I protect Ceanothus Caeruleus from frost?
A: To protect the plant from cold temperatures, cover it with a frost blanket or burlap during the winter months.
Related Plants
- Ceanothus thyrsiflorus
- Ceanothus integerrimus
- Ceanothus impressus
- Ceanothus griseus
References
- “Ceanothus Caeruleus.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 21 August 2021. <http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/ceanothus-caeruleus>
- “Ceanothus Caeruleus.” California Native Plant Society. Accessed 21 August 2021. <https://www.cnps.org/gardening/plants/ceanothus-caeruleus>
