Ceanothus incanus - Whitethorn

Description

This tall evergreen shrub grows to 12' high and about as broad. Its attractive gray branches and soft gray-green leaves are unique. In April and May it produces 2"-long clusters of white flowers. It can be very picturesque in the right spot. Unlike many ceanothus, whitethorn grows well in heavy soil or with regular water. It is drought tolerant but looks better with occasional water in summer. It does well in sun or part shade. Whitethorn is native to this area and coastal ranges north to Humboldt County.