Ceanothus Tuxedo (California Lilac)

A striking selection of California Lilac, Ceanothus ‘Tuxedo’ is a bushy, evergreen shrub noted for its amazing near black, shiny foliage. The dark leaves create a fascinating contrast with the abundant clusters, 3 in. long (7 cm), of lavender blue flowers. This hybrid California Lilac blooms in late summer to fall, later than most ceanothus varieties.

A striking selection of California Lilac, Ceanothus 'Tuxedo' is a bushy, evergreen shrub noted for its amazing near black, shiny foliage. The dark leaves create a fascinating contrast with the abundant clusters, 3 in. long (7 cm), of lavender blue flowers. This hybrid California Lilac blooms in late summer to fall, later than most ceanothus varieties. This unusual evergreen shrub sparks interest all year-round, even when not in bloom.

  • Grows up with an open, vase-shaped habit to 6-8 ft. tall and wide (180-240 cm).
  • Thrives in well-drained soils in full sun. Appreciates partial afternoon shade in hot inland areas. Provide a sheltered position. Water occasionally to infrequently. Drought tolerant.
  • Excellent plant for sunny areas, ideal as a specimen plant, wall-side borders, hedges and screens or planted in shrub borders.
  • Easy to grow, this plant is difficult to transplant once established.
  • Responds very well to pruning and can be shaped to fit the space.
  • Watch for powdery mildew.

Requirements

Hardiness 8
– 10

Climate Zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Shrubs
Plant Family Ceanothus – California Lilac
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Late)Fall
Height 6'
– 8'
(180cm
– 240cm)
Spread 6'
– 8'
(180cm
– 240cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Showy
Tolerance Drought, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil
Attracts Birds, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens, Wall-Side Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden