Ceanothus arboreus 'Trewithen Blue'
Californian lilac 'Trewithen Blue'
- 12 litre pot | 1.6m tall
- £179.99
- available to order from autumn
Delivery options
- Standard £12.99
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering period: April to May
- Hardiness: borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder regions)
A Californian lilac that captivates with its fragrant floral spectacle during late spring and early summer. This vigorous evergreen shrub unfurls glossy dark green leaves, providing a rich foil for its arching branches that bear abundant deep blue flower clusters up to 12cm (5in) long, highly attractive to pollinators. With its tolerance for coastal conditions and ability to thrive against sunny walls in more northerly locations, ‘Trewithen Blue’ is a standout ceanothus choice for sheltered gardens.
Ceanothus prefers a sunny, sheltered spot in well-drained soil and dislikes sitting wet in winter, so avoid heavy soils prone to waterlogging. Once planted, water regularly during the first growing season to help establish, then reduce as it becomes more drought tolerant.
Avoid feeding with high-nitrogen fertilisers, as this can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Prune after flowering by cutting back stems lightly to shape (avoid hard pruning into old wood unless wishing to regenerate from the base).
Mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the woody stems.
Avoid feeding with high-nitrogen fertilisers, as this can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Prune after flowering by cutting back stems lightly to shape (avoid hard pruning into old wood unless wishing to regenerate from the base).
Mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the woody stems.