Gorgeous, useful, hardy, and still not nearly well-known enough, Ceanothus x pallidus ‘Marie Simon’ is an adaptable California lilac hybrid with a softer, more romantic look than many ceanothus. Airy clusters of pink flowers cover the shrub in season, bringing unusual color, pollinator value, and graceful structure to mixed borders, cottage gardens, and wildlife-friendly landscapes.

Also known as Marie Simon ceanothus or pink California lilac, this East Coast and West Coast hybrid is easygoing, cold hardy, and tolerant of poor clay-ish soil as well as richer loam. Its open habit fits beautifully among roses, salvias, grasses, yarrow, buckwheats, and other drought tolerant shrubs and perennials. Bees and butterflies appreciate the abundant blooms, while gardeners love its adaptable nature and elegant presence.

Plant Ceanothus x pallidus ‘Marie Simon’ in full sun to part shade with well-drained soil. Provide moderate water while establishing, then reduce as appropriate. Hardy, graceful, and wonderfully uncommon, it deserves more garden fame. Explore more California lilac favorites in our Ceanothus - California Lilac collection.