California Lilac
Ceanothus
Monrovia® varieties
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardX Dark StarCeanothusMonroviaGri Yankee PointCeanothus griseusMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
#1MonroviaFrom$24.95
Seed PackFrom$3.39
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightFull Sun
WaterLow
Mature size2-12 ft × 4-10 ft
About California Lilac
California Lilac (Ceanothus spp.) is a genus of North American shrubs prized for dense clusters of blue, purple, or white spring flowers and glossy evergreen foliage. Most species are native to dry Mediterranean California climates and are challenging in NE Florida due to high summer humidity and rainfall; French Hybrid cultivars are better suited to southeastern conditions. Starting at $24.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Care essentials
Light
Requires full sun (6+ hours) for best flowering. Plant in the most open, airy position available to promote air circulation and reduce fungal pressure in Florida's humid climate.
Water
Extremely drought-tolerant once established; supplemental irrigation during Florida's wet season is harmful. Most species cannot tolerate Florida's summer rainfall on top of poorly drained soils — provide raised beds or coarse, gravelly soil to avoid root rot.
Soil & Fertilizer
Plant in lean, sharply drained sandy or gravelly soil; never amend with moisture-retaining organics. Avoid fertilizing. Most Ceanothus species are poorly adapted to Florida's humid summers; French Hybrid cultivars (C. x delileanus) offer better tolerance for southeastern conditions.
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Common questions
Is California Lilac a good plant for St. Augustine?
California Lilac is a plant for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 2-12 ft × 4-10 ft.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed June 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.