Ceanothus hearstiorum – Hearst's California Lilac

Ceanothus hearstiorum – Hearst's California Lilac

A lovely California-native evergreen shrub, Hearst's California lilac forms a dense, low mat of richly textured green foliage blanketed by medium-blue flower clusters in spring. Growing just 6–12 inches tall and spreading 6–8 feet wide, it is an excellent groundcover for coastal gardens, slopes, and broad borders where its foliage provides year-round interest. This drought-tolerant native thrives in well-drained soil with sun to partial shade. Inland, give it afternoon shade and occasional summer irrigation; young plants can be tip-pruned to encourage a fuller, more even cover.

Key Features:

• Evergreen shrub; low, spreading groundcover habit
• California native with attractive, textured green foliage
• Medium-blue flower clusters in spring
• Drought tolerant once established, especially in coastal climates
• Excellent choice for coastal gardens, slopes, and groundcover planting
• Well-drained soil; partial shade and occasional summer water beneficial inland
• Tip-prune young plants to encourage dense coverage

Growing Details:
Height: 6–12 inches | Spread: 6–8 feet
Exposure: Sun to partial shade | Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established near the coast
Bloom time: Spring | Bloom color: Medium blue
USDA Hardiness Zone: 8–10