1 / 4Key characteristics
- Family
- Rhamnaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 6 to 8 feet
- Flower color
- Clusters of bright blue to lavender flowers
- Foliage color
- Glossy, dark green toothed leaves with a leathery texture
- Bloom time
- Spring (typically March to May)
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Low
- Maintenance
- Low; occasional pruning to shape after flowering
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 8 to 10
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and birds
Groundcovers
Ceanothus gloriosus
Point Reyes Ceanothus
Ceanothus gloriosus, commonly known as Point Reyes ceanothus, is a low-growing evergreen shrub admired for its vibrant spring blooms and distinctive foliage. From March to May, it produces dense clusters of vivid blue to lavender flowers that contrast beautifully with its glossy, heavily toothed dark green leaves. The plant's red stems add another layer of visual interest, providing a striking framework for the foliage and blooms.
Works well in
- Pollinator Gardens
- Native Gardens
- Deer-Prone Areas
- Coastal Gardens
Companion plants
Penstemons · Woolly sunflowers · Yarrow · California fescues · Manzanitas · California poppies
Design tip
Use this broad, spreading groundcover to unify the edges of dry garden beds and soften transitions into natural landscapes. Its low profile creates a gentle visual flow, helping larger shrubs and ornamental grasses blend seamlessly into surrounding plantings.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
More groundcovers
Sisyrinchium angustifolium 'Devon Skies'
Devon Skies Blue-eyed Grass
Blooms clear sky blue to lavender-blue petals with a bright yellow eye, creating a star-like appearance
Full sun to partial shade
Vinca minor 'Bowles'
Bowles Periwinkle
Blooms lavender-blue
Partial shade to full shade
Campanula x ‘Birch Hybrid’
Bellflower
Blooms bell-shaped blue, lavender, or white
Part shade to full sun
Geranium ‘Johnson’s Blue’
Johnson’s Blue Cranesbill
Blooms bright blue with a hint of lavender
Full sun to partial shade