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Cliff Schmidt Ceanothus

Ceanothus arboreus 'Cliff Schmidt'

perennial herb View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun

Water

very low

Soil

Fast, Medium; Tolerates a variety of soils but does best and lives longest in well drained soil.

Size

20–30ft tall , 10–10ft wide

Bloom

Jan-Dec

Foliage

Evergreen

Deer

Resistant

Fragrant

Yes

Flowers

Prized

Keystone Plant

Supports up to 120 butterfly and moth species in Mediterranean California

Native Range

Coastal sage scrub on Santa Catalina Island off Los Angeles County, below 1500 ft elevation

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your Cliff Schmidt Ceanothus in full sun with fast-draining soil - this is non-negotiable for a long life. It tolerates a variety of soils but truly thrives in well-drained conditions, so amend heavy clay with compost or plant on a slope if needed. The best time to plant is fall or early winter to establish roots before summer heat arrives. Space it where it has room to grow 20–30 feet tall, and note that it's evergreen year-round.

After Planting

Water weekly during your first summer to establish roots, then drastically reduce watering - once established (typically by year two), stop summer irrigation entirely and let nature take over. The #1 mistake people make is overwatering, which actually shortens this plant's lifespan; think of it like the Channel Islands where it naturally grows, and you'll understand it wants neglect. Expect bright blue flowers in winter and spring. Prune only as needed for shape, and accept that despite its fast growth, ceanothus can be short-lived - but faithful desert gardening practices maximize your chances.

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