Ceanothus thyrsiflorus ‘Skylark’, Skylark Lilac
Out of stock
Valued for its compact habit and late flowering, this selection offers clusters of large, sky blue flowers on short stems appearing just as other ceanothus are finishing their show. Skylark has a longstanding reputation as an adaptable compact lilac and a good choice for small gardens.
The dense evergreen foliage is slow growing to 4 – 5 ft. tall and 6 – 7 ft. wide with an upright form. The final height will vary with growing conditions, but a maximum height of six feet is a reasonable expectation after several years.
Skylark does best in full sun, with part shade in inland sites. It grows best in sandy, coarse-grained or other fast draining soil. After blooming, the flower stalks may be trimmed to promote a cleaner appearance. Although it has a reputation for adaptability, well-draining soil and little or no water once the plant is established will ensure a healthy and long-lived plant. Seeds are favored by bushtits, mockingbirds, quail and finches, and it is an important food source for bees.
This popular shrub is thought to be a hybrid between Ceanothus thyrsiflorus and Ceanothus velutinus.