Blueblossom - Ceanothus thyrsiflorus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Blueblossom

Also known as: Blue blossom ceanothus, Carmel ceanothus

Blueblossom is an evergreen shrub that is common in the West Coast region of the United States. The flower clusters on this plant are tightly grouped into balls and colors range from purple and white to light blue and dark blue. Ceanothus thyrsiflorus can grow more than 6 m tall.

Scientific classification

Species

Blueblossom (Ceanothus thyrsiflorus)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

50 cm to 6 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 1.8 m

Spread

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Blueblossom

Distribution of Blueblossom

Distribution Map

Blueblossom (Ceanothus thyrsiflorus) is a flowering shrub found in coastal wooded slopes and canyons on the west coast of North America from Oregon into Mexico. This plant is a popular garden species for its evergreen leaves and blue flowers, and it is widely grown in both its natural and hybridized forms.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Wooded slopes and canyons, neighbourhood of streams, evergreen forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Blueblossom is a type of wild lilac very popular with gardeners for its profuse flowers. It is often used for screening and hedges, a task made easy by its thick foliage. It is ideal in Mediterranean-style gardens, and will also thrive on slopes and against walls. Other plants with fine flowers are good companions: Douglas iris, Seathrift, Columbine, or Bearberries, for instance.

Interesting Facts

Blueblossom is known as a "fire flower," or a shrub species that germinates and grows quickly in the spaces that have been decimated by wildfires. Recently, more fires than usual in the San Francisco Bay Area has meant there are more blueblossom species sprouting up. The flowers are seen for 10 to 20 years following fire in the area.

Name Story

Blueblossom: Thyrsiflorus refers to the meaning 'with flowers arranged in the shape of a contracted panicle or thyrsus staff'. You will be attracted to its flowers when you first see this plant. Its bright green leaves compliment with flourishing blue flowers can create beautiful scenery.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Blueblossom, including the following common varieties :

Blueblossom 'El Dorado'California lilacs 'Autumnal Blue'California lilacs 'Concha'Blueblossom 'Skylark'California lilacs 'Delight'Blueblossom 'Pershore Zanzibar'California lilacs 'Gloire de Versailles'

Quickly Identify Blueblossom

Robust evergreen shrub, up to 20 feet (6 meters) high and wide.

Profusion of rare vivid blue flowers in dense, spike-like clusters.

Small fruit with glandular-sticky surface, evolving in coloration with maturity.

Elliptic to ovate leaves, up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) long, with serrated margins.

Distinct 3 prominent veins on leaf underside, enhancing texture and identification.

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Care Guide for Blueblossom

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Blueblossom is a shrub from California's coastal regions, thriving in Mediterranean climates with moderate drought tolerance. Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks for deep soil hydration. As an evergreen, blueblossom requires consistent moisture to support year-round foliage and transpiration, especially outdoors.

Fertilize: For blueblossom, use a balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizer (10-10-10) monthly in spring and summer. This promotes growth and flowering while preventing over-fertilization to protect roots. In fall and winter, reduce feeding. Water blueblossom before and after fertilizing to enhance nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Blueblossom is an evergreen shrub celebrated for its bright blue flowers. Prune in late spring post-bloom, removing weak stems and thinning crowded branches for air circulation. Light, regular maintenance enhances structure, blooms, and health, while heavy pruning should be avoided.

Propagation: Blueblossom propagates best via cuttings in Spring and Summer. Successful propagation is shown by fresh root growth. Maintain adequate moisture and protect from direct sunlight during the early stages of growth.

Repotting: Repot blueblossom every 2-3 years in spring, using a pot that allows root growth. Use well-draining soil, place in a sunny location, and water moderately to prevent root rot, ensuring attentive care for optimal growth after repotting.

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Images of Blueblossom

Distribution of Blueblossom

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Blueblossom

Care Guide for Blueblossom

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