Zanzibar Ceanothus Ceanothus 'Pershore Zanzibar' (PBR) (v)

Water

California lilac should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage a strong, deep root system. During its first growing season, water the plant weekly with about 1-2 gallons of water to help establish its roots. Once established, California lilac is quite drought tolerant and generally only needs additional water during extended periods of dryness. In the summer, if there is no rain, water every two to three weeks. Always allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions, as the plant does not tolerate soggy conditions.

Light

California lilac thrives best in full sun conditions with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to encourage prolific flowering and dense foliage growth. It should be placed in a spot where it is exposed to unfiltered, direct natural light, which is crucial for its overall health and blooming capabilities. However, in areas with very hot summers, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching of the leaves.

Temperature

California lilac prefers temperate conditions and can generally tolerate a range between 20°F for short periods and up to about 95°F. The ideal temperature range for robust growth and flowering is between 50°F and 75°F. It's vital to protect the plant from extreme cold snaps by mulching the base or providing some cover when temperatures dip towards the lower end of its tolerance.

Pruning

Prune California lilac to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged stems. Pruning should be done immediately after the blooming period in late spring or early summer, as the plant blooms on old wood. Remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to help rejuvenate the plant and encourage new growth. Light trimming can also be performed to keep the desired shape and size.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

California Lilac (Ceanothus 'Pershore Zanzibar') thrives in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). A mix incorporating loam, sand, and compost or well-rotted organic matter is ideal, providing good drainage and fertility.

Repotting

California Lilac should be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish the soil and accommodate root growth. It's best done in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Humidity & Misting

California Lilac prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the lower humidity found in most home environments without issue.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate humidity for indoor California Lilac.

• Outdoor

  Place in full sun, well-draining soil; shelter from harsh winds for outdoor California Lilac.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

The Ceanothus 'Pershore Zanzibar', commonly known as the Zanzibar California Lilac, begins its life cycle as a seed, dormant until it germinates, often requiring specific environmental triggers such as fire or scarification. Once germinated, the seedling emerges and establishes itself, gradually developing a root system and foliage. It enters a vegetative growth phase, characterized by rapid growth of leaves and stems, and in its maturity, it will develop woody stems and may reach up to 1.5 to 2 meters in height and spread. During its reproductive stage, which typically occurs in spring to early summer, the Zanzibar California Lilac produces clusters of vibrant blue or violet flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies. After pollination, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed, allowing for the next generation to begin the life cycle anew. The plant, being a perennial, can live for several years with proper care, although it may require occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Early Summer

• The most popular method for propagating the Ceanothus 'Pershore Zanzibar', commonly known as Variegated California Lilac, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process typically takes place during mid-summer to early autumn. To do this, one must select healthy, non-flowering shoots that have begun to mature but are not yet fully woody. A cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) is taken, with the lower leaves removed to expose a clean stem. The base of the cutting is then dipped into rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth and planted into a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite or a similar free-draining propagation medium. The pot should then be covered with a plastic bag or placed in a propagator to maintain high humidity, and kept in a warm place with indirect light until roots develop, which typically takes a few weeks to a couple of months.