Ceanothus prostratus

Ceanothus prostratus is a bush with a prostrate habit that spreads by spontaneous layering in light soils. Forming a dark green carpet, covered with fine foliage of a very bright green, it blooms early in spring with a mass of bright blue flowers covering the ground. This botanical species perfectly resists drought once established, as well as frosts of around -10° C to 12° C (14° F to 10.4° F) in well-drained soil. An adorable decorative ground cover all year round, which will find its place above a wall or in a rock garden.

Ceanothus prostratus is a wild Ceanothus, native to the entire northwestern region bordering the North American Pacific, and is also present in the state of Washington. Its natural environment corresponds to the understory of mixed forests, foothills of subalpine areas, open plains, and dry forests. Two subspecies are distinguished, of which Ceanothus prostratus is the most creeping and widespread form in nature. Ceanothus belong to the Rhamnaceae family. This very low bush has a prostrate, spreading, and creeping habit, reaching a minimum height of 40 cm (15.7 in) and a spread of 2 m (6.6 ft) at a minimum. Its flower buds appear in March-April, at the tips of the branches, grouped in small dense panicles. They open into intensely lavender-blue flowers, which are slightly fragrant and very popular with bees. It is followed by the formation of seeds which, once mature, are released explosively. The evergreen foliage is composed of small glossy green leaves that are opposite, ovate, dentate, with deep veins, 1 cm to 3 cm (0.4 in to 1.2 in) long, and somewhat resemble miniature oak leaves. Its average lifespan is 15 to 20 years, and its preferred climate will be rather coastal.

Ceanothus offer some of the most beautiful blue flowerings. Tolerating poor, even rocky and slightly calcareous soils, Ceanothus prostratus is a superb and easy-to-grow ground cover in mild climates. Plant it above a retaining wall, for example with creeping rosemary, aubrietas, and wallflowers. It can also be mixed with small, easy-to-grow bushes in mild climates, which will precede or take over its beautiful flowering: rock roses, oreganos, teucriums, thymes, and other lavenders. It will also thrive by the sea. This variety will enhance your balconies and terraces when planted in large containers, with some precautions.