SafePlants

Santa Barbara Ceanothus (Ceanothus impressus)

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that Ceanothus impressus has small leaves. Small plant parts can pose a potential choking hazard for pets if ingested.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that Ceanothus impressus has small leaves. Small plant parts can pose a potential choking hazard for young children if ingested.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Ceanothus impressus Trel.
• Common Names: Santa Barbara ceanothus, California lilac, Redroot, Santa Barbara buckbrush, Santa Barbara Mountain Lilac, Lilas de Santa Barbara (French).
• Family: Rhamnaceae (Buckthorn)
• Genus: Ceanothus L.
• Taxonomic Rank: Species. The text also mentions varieties such as Ceanothus impressus var. impressus and Ceanothus impressus var. nipomensis.
• Synonyms: The text does not explicitly list synonyms, but it refers to the plant by several common names, indicating some variation in how it's known.

Distribution and Habitat

• Ceanothus impressus is endemic to California, particularly the Central Coast region and the Santa Barbara area.
• It grows in chaparral plant communities from sea level up to elevations of 200 meters.
• One specific location mentioned is the Burton Mesa in northern Santa Barbara County.
• The plant is also observed in the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Ceanothus impressus is an evergreen shrub.
• It grows to approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) in height and width at a medium rate.
• The plant is noted for its bright blue flowers and upright growth habit.
• It has small, black-green leaves arranged densely on arching branches.
• The leaves are described as being very small, 1/4"-1/2", with curled margins.

Ecological Role

• The genus Ceanothus consists of nitrogen-fixing shrubs, highlighting their importance in soil nutrient cycling.

Cultivation

• Ceanothus impressus prefers a warm, sunny location but can tolerate light shade.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The text references chaparral communities dominated by Ceanothus megacarpus, indicating the plant's role in these specific ecosystems.

Resources and Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
• San Marcos Growers
• Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
• Encyclopedia of Life
• California Academy of Sciences