Contents
Description
Ceanothus Jepsonii, also known as Jepson’s ceanothus, is a flowering shrub native to California. It is a member of the Rhamnaceae family and is known for its beautiful blue flowers that bloom in the spring. This evergreen shrub can grow up to six feet tall and six feet wide, making it an excellent choice for hedges or as a specimen plant in your garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Ceanothus |
Appearance
Ceanothus Jepsonii has dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and about two inches long. The leaves are arranged in an alternate pattern on the stems. The flowers are small and blue, and they grow in clusters that can be up to four inches long. The flowers are fragrant and attract bees and butterflies to your garden. The bark of the plant is brown and has a rough texture.
Care Guide
To care for Ceanothus Jepsonii, you should water it deeply once a week during the growing season. You do not need to fertilize this plant, but if you want to, you can use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. The soil should be well-draining, and you should avoid planting this shrub in heavy, clay soils. Ceanothus Jepsonii prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ceanothus Jepsonii is susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly draining soil. It can also be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that can be treated with a fungicide. Spider mites can also be a problem, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Ceanothus Jepsonii is native to California and can be found in the coastal sage scrub and chaparral plant communities. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ceanothus Jepsonii deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Ceanothus Jepsonii is deer-resistant.
Q: Can I prune Ceanothus Jepsonii?
A: Yes, you can prune Ceanothus Jepsonii after it has finished blooming in the spring.
Q: How often should I water Ceanothus Jepsonii?
A: Ceanothus Jepsonii should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Ceanothus Jepsonii in a container?
A: No, Ceanothus Jepsonii is not a good choice for container gardening.
Related Plants
- Ceanothus griseus
- Ceanothus thyrsiflorus
- Ceanothus impressus
References
- “Ceanothus Jepsonii.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 24 August 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/ceanothus-jepsonii
- “Jepson’s Ceanothus.” California Native Plant Society. Accessed 24 August 2021. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/gardening-with-natives/plant-profile/jepsons-ceanothus
- “Ceanothus Jepsonii.” Pacific Horticulture Society. Accessed 24 August 2021. https://www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/ceanothus-jepsonii/
