Dark star ceanothus is an evergreen mounding shrub with a tight branching habit, growing 5-8 ft. tall, 8-10 ft. wide. Plants develop an upright form when young, then become more rounded with age. Tiny leaves grow 1/4 in. to 1/2 in. long and produce a fine textural character. Intense cobalt-blue flowers develop in early spring for a short and intense 2-3 week display.
Dark star ceanothus is planted in Inland Empire gardens for its fast growth rate and brilliant flower value. It is among the best seasonal California native flowering accent plants for garden use on slopes and in background areas on well drained soils. The fast growth rate of this cultivar is very impressive; it often offsets the slower growing and longer lived plants in a garden. Mix this with other California natives and use care to avoid too much summer watering.
