Ceanothus ‘Dark Star’, Dark Star Lilac

This popular small-leaved shrub reaches 4–6 ft. high by 6 –10 ft. wide. In the home garden, it is a show-stopper when it is in bloom, and an evergreen backbone the rest of the year. Electric cobalt-blue flowers cover the plant in spring.

Dark Star grows well in dry, infertile soils on slopes or where drainage is excellent. Place this shrub where it will not receive supplemental irrigation during the summer after its first year. Overwatering it will decrease its longevity. It’s not a good choice for hot inland areas. Surround young shrubs with tall chicken wire for the first year or so after planting to protect them until they are large enough to tolerate deer grazing.

All ceanothus are attractive to deer, birds and pollinators. Deer eat the flowers and leaves; birds eat the small, black fruits and the seeds are eaten by bushtits, mockingbirds, quail and finches; bees, butterflies, and moths feed from the flowers. Once mature, its branches also create a safe haven for birds and small wildlife.

Ceanothus species are naturally found in sunny, dry locations in chaparral and sunny woodland openings. Dark Star is very similar to Julia Phelps but differs mainly in size; Dark Star tends to stay a little smaller.