Ray Hartman Ceanothus blooming again

The Ray Hartman ceanothus, also called California lilac, is native to California. It tolerates very dry conditions, and needs to grow in well-draining soil.

I have never seen the one we have growing in the garden bloom later than spring, when it is laden with these beautiful deep purplish blue flowers. But this year, in drought conditions, it seems to be doing especially well and is developing flowers again!

It will be fun to observe bees collecting pollen from the flowers this summer.

This is such an amazing shrub that can grow 15 feet tall, and just as wide, if you let it. Pruning dried tips will keep it healthy, as long as it is not severely pruned.

Ray Hartman ceanothus berries