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Ceanothus impressus: Santa Barbara Ceanothus

Ceanothus impressus, belonging to the Rhamnaceae (Buckthorn) family, is a species of flowering shrub known by the common name Santa Barbara ceanothus. Other common names include California lilac, Redroot, and Santa Barbara buckbrush. It is also sometimes referred to as Santa Barbara Mountain Lilac.

Considerations for Pets

• This is a shrub with small leaves and curled margins.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Ceanothus impressus Trel.
• Family: Rhamnaceae (Buckthorn)
• Genus: Ceanothus L.
• Varieties:
  • Ceanothus impressus var. impressus
  • Ceanothus impressus var. nipomensis McMinn
• Synonyms: Santa Barbara buckbrush

Distribution and Habitat

• Ceanothus impressus is native to California and endemic to the Central Coast.
• Specifically found in the Central CA Coast and Northern Santa Barbara County (Burton Mesa and Santa Ynez Mountains).
• Grows in chaparral plant communities from sea level to elevations of 200 meters.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• An evergreen shrub growing to approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) in height and width at a medium rate.
• Possesses small, often black-green, leaves (1/4"-1/2") with curled margins that are densely arranged, sometimes arching.
• Displays bright blue flowers.
• Upright growing habit.

Ecological Role

• Ceanothus species are known to be nitrogen-fixing shrubs.

Cultivars

• 'Puget Blue'
• 'Vandenberg'
• 'Victoria'

Further Information

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