Ceanothus thyrsiflorus, Blueblossom

A key pollinator plant due to its early bloom time, Blueblossom is a large shrub or small tree in the Buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae). Evergreen, glossy leaves range from bright green to dark green. Small flower clusters range in color from light blue, dark blue, or blue-violet. In the garden it is likely to grow fairly upright to 30 feet tall and wide but in the wild the form is quite variable. Flowers appear in late winter or early spring and are an important early source of food for pollinators. Bees are especially attracted to the flowers. Ceanothus is a host plant for dozens of species of butterflies and moths. Three-lobed seed capsules are eaten by birds and small mammals.

Blueblossom grows primarily along the coast and coastal mountains, in many different habitats, in full sun or part shade. In the hotter, inland part of its range, it can be found growing in the shade of northern slopes, under mature woodland canopies, or closer to an irrigated or a naturally moist area. In the cooler, coastal areas, it prefers more sun and dry locations. It likes fairly dry, well-drained soil. Deer will browse it.

In the garden, if you continue to provide summer irrigation after it is established, ceanothus species will usually be short-lived. Choose a ceanothus which is native to your location, then stop irrigating after year two or three. Blueblossom can be used alone as a backdrop to shorter shrubs and perennials, or as an evergreen hedge. Prune it to one trunk for a tree form or keep it natural for a large shrub. When in bloom, blueblossom is almost entirely covered in flowers, creating a dreamy blue haze in the landscape. There are many cultivars available at nurseries all over the state.