CEANOTHUS “Concha”

Interesting and vigorous hybrid of Ceanothus, perennial and evergreen shrub, with rapid growth and globose and dense habit: at its maximum development, it can grow up to 2 m tall and large. Densely branched and lignified from the base, it is made up of numerous rigid and slightly arched stems which, branching further and orienting themselves in every direction, give the plant a rounded and compact shape: the leaves, small and opposite, leathery and glabrous, ovate-lanceolate with obtuse apex and smooth, bright green margins, make the plant decorative all year long. In the middle of spring a generous flowering colors this bush: from reddish buds placed in the terminal part of the branches or in the axillary region of the leaves, rich inflorescences of tiny lavender blue flowers bloom, frequently visited by bees and insects in general.

This plant needs sunny or partial shade positions, and adapts to any type of soil, as long as it is well drained. It tolerates the typical salinity of the sea winds of the coastal areas, as well as prolonged periods of drought. It bears minimum winter temperatures only a few degrees below zero, therefore in regions characterized by intense and lasting cold it is preferable to ensure a sheltered position or shelter in a cool and bright environment in winter. Immediately after flowering, it is possible to remove dry, damaged, old or bulky branches, and at the same time shorten the various stems in order to allow a more compact and regular development and intensify the subsequent flowering. Like the great majority of Ceanothus, this plant is not very long-lived, but certainly, among the many species, one of the most striking. It has a great decorative effect when grown in large pots on terraces and balconies. In the open ground, it can create colored borders and hedges, arranging several specimens in succession, also alternating them with other essences with complementary blooms; or it can be used to dress any corner of our garden with simplicity and elegance.