About

Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. repens 'Ken Taylor' is a robust, low-profile evergreen shrub, typically reaching heights of 30 to 60 cm and spreading over 2 meters. Its branches have a graceful arching form and are adorned with glossy, finely serrated leaves that can grow up to 4 cm in length. In spring, this plant produces abundant clusters of pale blue flowers arranged in tight panicles.

About the genus

Ceanothus consists of either evergreen or deciduous shrubs and small trees, characterized by simple leaves and clusters of small flowers that can be blue, pink, or white. These plants are known for their rapid growth, though they often have a limited lifespan.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun with shelter from strong, cold winds. Lime tolerant but may become chlorotic on shallow chalk soils. See ceanothus cultivation
Pruning
Pruning group 8 after flowering or pruning group 13 for wall-trained
Propagation
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in mid to late summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to scale insects
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus