Woolly ceanothus
ceanothus tomentosus
Also known as: ["Woolly ceanothus","Woollyleaf ceanothus"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to California, known for its woolly leaves and clusters of small, fragrant white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus: | Ceanothus |
| Botanical Name: | Ceanothus tomentosus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or slope with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth if needed; rotate plant for even exposure.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry climates.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3–4 months with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid late-season feeding; use organic options like compost.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Perlite and peat moss mix; well-draining cactus mix can also work.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning; heading back to promote bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; ensure good drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; avoid frequent repotting as it prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; minimal root disturbance.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until soil is moist but not waterlogged; allow excess to drain; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer; reduce to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; wilting in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows; frost can damage tender tissues.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold; plant in sheltered spots.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCeanothus tomentosus is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCeanothus tomentosus is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCeanothus tomentosus is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Ceanothus tomentosus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Ceanothus tomentosus drought tolerant?
A: Yes, it is highly drought tolerant once established.
Q: What are the common problems with Ceanothus tomentosus?
A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rhamnaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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