Key features
Final size2 x 2.5 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves year-round (evergreen)
FlowersBlue in mid-late spring
PositionFull sun
SoilRequires well-draining soil
Description
The beautiful Ceanothus impressus ‘Victoria’ is a bushy flowering evergreen, popular for its versatility and low maintenance. A great choice for pollinators, it grows panicles of scented blue flowers in late spring through to early summer, providing a wonderful contrast against the lush evergreen foliage as well as a spectacular floral display.
A fast grower, Ceanothus ‘Victoria’ is one of the hardiest Californian Lilacs and is tolerant to drought once established. Ideal for sunny areas, either as a free-standing specimen plant, part of a shrub border, or trained against a wall. It has an estimated height and spread in 20 years of 2 x 2.5 metres.
AKA California Wild Lilac
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Ceanothus require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
Ceanothus do not require a lot of pruning. Simply remove any dead, diseased or awkwardly placed branches from the tree as and when you see them.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
