ShrubsCeanothus thyrsiflorus
California Lilac
California Lilac is a spectacular, evergreen shrub covered in masses of sky-blue flower panicles in spring. The small, glossy dark green leaves provide an attractive backdrop year-round. One of the few shrubs that produce truly blue flowers.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 100–300 cm
- Spread
- 100–250 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 8–10
- Family
- Rhamnaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- blue
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in a sheltered position in light, well-drained soil. Does not tolerate wet feet or heavy clay. Drought-tolerant once established. Protect in severe winters with fleece — moderately hardy in cooler climates.
Pruning tips
Lightly prune immediately after flowering in June to maintain shape. Do not cut into old wood — the plant recovers poorly. Remove frost-damaged or dead branches in spring.
Good companions
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
HerbsRosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary
Rosemary is an aromatic, evergreen sub-shrub with needle-like deep-green foliage and small blue flowers in spring. The plant gives off a warm, resinous scent and is prized both in the kitchen and the ornamental garden. Rosemary thrives in warm, dry spots and is highly drought-tolerant.
PerennialsEuphorbia characias
Mediterranean Spurge
Mediterranean Spurge is an architectural, evergreen perennial with blue-green foliage and striking yellow-green flower heads in spring. The columnar flower stems can reach 120 cm and bring colour and structure to the garden early in the season.