Ceanothus hearstiorum is a beautiful and useful evergreen groundcover California lilac for tough sites, including heavy clay. Native to the San Luis Obispo County coastline, this low-growing California native shrub forms a dense, spreading mat of small, dark green leaves that looks polished and handsome year-round.

In spring, clusters of soft blue flowers appear above the foliage, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while adding a gentle wash of color. Hearst’s Ceanothus is excellent for slopes, dry borders, native plant gardens, erosion control, coastal plantings, and low-water landscapes where a flat, evergreen ground cover is needed. Its tidy habit also makes it useful along paths and retaining walls.

Plant Ceanothus hearstiorum in full sun to part shade with well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant once established and more clay tolerant than many ceanothus varieties, though good drainage is still appreciated. Avoid heavy summer water for best long-term performance. Explore more native California lilacs in our Ceanothus collection.