Cliff Schmidt California Tree Lilac (Ceanothus arboreus 'Cliff Schmidt')

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Cliff Schmidt California Tree Lilac

Ceanothus arboreus 'Cliff Schmidt'

A towering California native lilac with fragrant, powder-blue spring blooms and glossy, white-undersided leaves, perfect for slopes and coastal gardens.

$66.90

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Description

Ceanothus arboreus 'Cliff Schmidt', commonly known as Cliff Schmidt California Tree Lilac or Feltleaf Ceanothus, is a spectacular, fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree—one of the tallest species in the Ceanothus genus. Native to the California coast, it forms a vigorous, upright framework with glossy, dark green leaves that are notably felted and white-undersided, providing year-round texture and interest. In spring, it erupts in an unforgettable display of fragrant, powder-blue flower clusters that blanket the plant like a soft, hazy cloud, creating a breathtaking seasonal spectacle. Exceptionally drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and low-maintenance, it is an outstanding choice for slopes, coastal gardens, pollinator habitats, and water-wise landscapes where it can be grown as a specimen or pruned into a dense hedge or screen.

Quick Facts

Foliage & Flowers: Glossy, dark green, leathery leaves with white-felted undersides; dense, fragrant, powder-blue flower clusters in spring.
Mature Height: 15-20 ft.
Mature Spread: 15-20 ft.
Growth Rate: Fast.
Hardiness Zones: USDA 8-10; Sunset 5-9, 14-24.
Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade (best flowering in full sun).
Core Benefits: Massive powder-blue spring blooms, intoxicating fragrance, tall upright form, drought tolerant, deer resistant, low maintenance.
Best Uses: Slopes (erosion control), coastal gardens, specimens, screens, hedges, native plant gardens, pollinator gardens, water-wise landscapes.

Faqs

Q: How large does Cliff Schmidt California Tree Lilac get?
A: It is one of the tallest Ceanothus species, typically reaching 15-20 feet in height and 15-20 feet in spread at maturity, and can grow even taller (up to 23 feet) in ideal conditions.

Q: When does it bloom?
A: It blooms in spring, producing dense clusters of fragrant, powder-blue flowers that cover the plant in a spectacular display.

Q: Is it drought tolerant?
A: Yes, once established, it is exceptionally drought tolerant. Water regularly during its first year, then little to no supplemental water is needed. Do not overwater, as it is sensitive to excess moisture and requires excellent drainage.

Q: Is it deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally resistant to deer.

Q: How much sun does it need?
A: For the most abundant flowering, plant in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily). It will tolerate partial shade but will flower less.

Q: Is it a good choice for slopes?
A: Yes, its fast-growing, deep-rooted habit makes it excellent for erosion control on slopes and banks.

📍 Primary Delivery Area · San Francisco Bay Area

Local delivery across the Bay Area — and beyond.

San Francisco Bay Area is our primary local delivery market. Victory Nursery also serves additional California markets and selected extended delivery areas by arrangement.

Regular local delivery: San Francisco, Peninsula, South Bay, East Bay, Marin, Tracy / Mountain House and surrounding service areas.

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