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Key characteristics

Family: Rhamnaceae
Height: 3 to 5 feet
Width: 4 to 6 feet
Flower color: Cobalt blue
Foliage color: Glossy, dark green
Bloom time: Mid to late spring
Light: Full sun to light shade
Water: Low
Maintenance: Low; occasional pruning to shape after flowering and remove damaged branches
Growing zone: USDA zones 8 to 10
Wildlife: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Shrubs

Ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'Victoria'

Victoria California Lilac

Ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'Victoria' is an evergreen shrub valued for its dense clusters of cobalt blue flowers that bloom in spring. The blooms appear in mid to late spring, creating a brilliant contrast against the glossy, dark green foliage. The blossoms attract pollinators, making it a popular choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. The plant maintains its attractive appearance throughout the year, offering both visual interest and ecological benefits.

Light

Full sun to light shade

Water

Low

Bloom time

Mid to late spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Coastal Gardens
Hedging & Privacy
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Manzanitas · Hydrangea · Poppy · Foxtail lily · Oregano · Globe artichoke

Design tip

Its dense evergreen form can define a garden boundary without making the space feel overly formal, while the cobalt-blue flowers turn that boundary into a spring feature. Repeat blue-flowering plants elsewhere to visually connect the hedge with the rest of the garden.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)