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Description
Ceanothus Impressus, commonly known as the California Lilac, is a beautiful evergreen shrub that is native to California. It is a member of the Rhamnaceae family and is known for its stunning blue flowers and glossy foliage. The shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide and is known for its drought tolerance, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping. The Ceanothus Impressus is also known for attracting bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Ceanothus |
Appearance
The Ceanothus Impressus has a dense, rounded habit with glossy, dark green leaves that are about 1 inch long. The shrub blooms in the spring, producing showy clusters of deep blue flowers that are about 3 inches long. The flowers are fragrant and attract bees and butterflies. The shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, but can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Care Guide
The Ceanothus Impressus is a low-maintenance shrub that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your California Lilac:
Water: The Ceanothus Impressus is drought tolerant once established and does not require regular watering. However, it should be watered deeply during dry spells to help it establish a strong root system.
Fertilization: The shrub does not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: The Ceanothus Impressus prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate heavy or poorly drained soils. It is best to plant it in a sandy or loamy soil that is slightly acidic.
Sunlight: The shrub prefers full sun to partial shade and should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The Ceanothus Impressus is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ceanothus Impressus is generally a healthy shrub that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. In addition, the shrub can be attractive to spider mites and aphids, but these pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or a strong blast of water.
Habitat
The Ceanothus Impressus is native to California and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. The shrub is adapted to a Mediterranean climate and is well-suited for dry, sunny locations.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Ceanothus Impressus be grown in containers?
A: While the Ceanothus Impressus can be grown in containers, it is not recommended as the shrub prefers well-draining soil and can quickly outgrow a container.
Q: When is the best time to prune the Ceanothus Impressus?
A: The Ceanothus Impressus should be pruned in the late spring or early summer after it has finished blooming. Pruning during this time will help promote new growth and ensure that the shrub maintains its shape.
Q: Does the Ceanothus Impressus attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the Ceanothus Impressus is known for attracting bees and butterflies with its fragrant blue flowers.
Q: How often should the Ceanothus Impressus be watered?
A: The Ceanothus Impressus is drought tolerant once established and does not require regular watering. However, it should be watered deeply during dry spells to help it establish a strong root system.
Related Plants
- Ceanothus Concha
- Ceanothus Victoria
- Ceanothus Yankee Point
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Ceanothus impressus. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Ceanothus-impressus-()
- San Marcos Growers. (n.d.). Ceanothus impressus. Retrieved from https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1097
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. (n.d.). Ceanothus impressus. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/UrbanHort/California_Native_Plants/Shrubs/Ceanothus_impressus/
