James H. Schutte
Family
Rhamnaceae
Botanical Name
Ceanothus 'Ray Hartman'
Plant Common Name
California Lilac, Ray Hartman Wild Lilac, Wild Lilac
General Description
California lilac is a fantastic large, evergreen shrub that can be trained into a small tree. It grows very quickly forms a large mound with arching branches. The heavy flowering cultivar,'Ray Hartman', is a vigorous hybrid that's a cross between Ceanothus griseus and C. arboreus.
The glossy, dark green leaves of this selection have deep, conspicuous surface veins. Lots of showy, elongated clusters of light blue flowers appear in mid to late spring. Butterflies love the beautiful blooms.
For best results, grow this drought tolerant shrub in full sun and well-drained soil that's slightly acid. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay-rich. Pruning is well-tolerated and can be done as needed. With heavy pruning, it can be manicured into a hedge. 'Ray Hartman' is a great shrub for coastal and inland landscapes and works well as a screen or large specimen plant.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 8
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USDA Hardiness Zone
7 - 9
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Sunset Zone
5, 6, 7, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Shrub
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
12'-16' / 3.7m - 4.9m
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Bloom Time
Late Spring, Early Summer
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Native To
Hybrid Origin
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam
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Tolerances
Drought
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Drought Tolerant
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Habit
Spreading
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Seasonal Interest
Summer
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
Light Blue
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Dark Green
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
