Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. griseus - Yankee Point

‘Yankee Point’ is the California lilac that thinks horizontally. Instead of becoming a tall screen, it builds a broad, undulating carpet of glossy evergreen foliage, typically 2–3 feet tall and capable of spreading 6–12 feet. In spring, that rich green surface nearly disappears beneath masses of soft powder-blue flowers. It is handsome, useful, and very much not a plant for a tiny gap.

This coastal California native is a splendid choice for slopes, banks, broad dry borders, and large native plantings where its spreading habit can suppress weeds and knit the landscape together. The flowers hum with bees and other beneficial insects, while the evergreen leaves provide structure all year. Pair it with manzanitas, sages, buckwheats, California poppies, and native grasses for layered foliage and a long season of habitat value.

Plant in sun near the coast or give some afternoon relief in hotter inland gardens. Excellent drainage is essential. Water regularly during the first year, then reduce summer irrigation as the plant establishes; frequent warm-season watering and heavy soil can shorten the life of a ceanothus. Choose its mature space carefully because established plants resent hard pruning and root disturbance. See more blue-flowered native workhorses in our Ceanothus collection.