Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Rhamnaceae

Genus:

Ceanothus

Species:

Ceanothus fendleri

USDA Symbol:

CEFE

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub

Height:

100 cm

Light Requirements:

Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun,jul,aug

Bloom Colors:

white, blue

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:

★★★★★ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★★☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Reported Fauna Sightings

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, butterflies, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fragrant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts from root crown after fire; seeds also germinate in response to fire cues.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

prefers open, sunny locations

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

30–90 days

Notes:

Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) followed by cold stratification for 30-60 days to break dormancy.