Ceanothus cyaneus

Species Name: Ceanothus cyaneus
Common Name: Lakeside Lilac

A rare lilac. This versatile shrub is one of the most beautiful and native to San Diego county. Glossy light green leaves and showy flower spikes. Keep dry during the summer.

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Plant Family: Rhamnaceae

Plant Type: Shrub

Height by Width: 12' H x 8' W

Growth Habit: Upright, spreading limbs

Deciduous/Evergreen: Evergreen

Growth Rate: Fast

Sun Exposure: Full to part sun

Soil Preference: Well-draining, rocky

Water Requirements: Drought-tolerant

Cold Hardy to: 15 degrees F

Flower Season: Winter/Spring

Flower Color: Deep blue

Endangered?: List 1B / RED 3-2-2

Distribution: Southern Peninsular Range (San Diego County)

Natural Habitat: Dry shrubby slopes, closed cone coniferous forest below 1320'

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Care and Maintenance

History

• Introduced into cultivation in California by Theodore Payne.
• From California Native Plants, Theodore Payne's 1941 catalog: "A rare species from San Diego County, introduced into cultivation by us in 1922 and now the most popular of the California Wild Lilacs. The shrubs grow 6 to 12 feet high with rich glossy green foliage. The flowers are produced in immense spikes and are the richest shade of dark blue, appearing in May and June after the other species are over. the blossoms are produced in such profusion that the plant is a mass of bloom. This shrub is naturally of rather tall sparse growth, but by pruning back severely when young it can be made into a well shaped bush. It requires good drainage and thrives best in disintegrated granite or gravelly soil. Gallon cans, 50c; 5 gallon cans, $1.75."

Other Names

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