RAY HARTMAN CEANOTHUS

Ceanothus 'Ray Hartman'

FAMILY Rhamnaceae

SYNONYMS

ADDITIONAL COMMON NAMES

See: all Ceanothus

GENERAL INFO

This tree is a versatile and hardy addition to urban landscapes, known for its dense clusters of vibrant blue flowers that bloom in the spring. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round greenery, with leaves that are small, glossy, and dark green. The tree is drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens. It can grow as either a small tree or a large shrub, reaching heights of 10 to 20 feet. Its spreading branches create a rounded canopy that offers moderate shade. This tree also attracts pollinators, including bees and butterflies, adding to its ecological value.
Native range: CaliforniaHorticultural use: ScreenSchoolyard Use: This tree features clusters of tiny, blue flowers that bloom in spring, providing a vibrant display and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its evergreen leaves can be used to discuss adaptations to drought conditions. The dense foliage offers opportunities to explore the importance of native plants in local ecosystems. The tree's ability to fix nitrogen in the soil can be incorporated into lessons on nutrient cycles and soil health.

TREE CHARACTERISTICS

Tree Shape: RoundedMaximum Tree Height: 20 feetCanopy Width: 15-20 feetGrowth Rate: ~24-36 in/yearLeaf Arrangement and Leaf Form: Alternate, SimpleLeaf Shape: OvalLeaf color: GreenFlowers: Showy, FragrantFlower Color: BlueFlower Time: SpringFruit: Small Black or Purple CapsuleFruiting time: Winter or SummerBark Color: Dark Brown, Smooth

SITE CONDITIONS

Recommended Planting Area: 2' to 4'Schoolyard Trees: YesWater Use Rating: LowSunset Climate Zone: 5 - 9, 14 - 24Shade Tolerance: NoSoil Texture: Loam or SandSoil pH: Very Acidic to Slightly AlkalineSalt Tolerance: Moderate

CONSIDERATIONS

Branch Strength: MediumRoot Damage Potential: LowPotential health issues: AllergyWildlife interactions: Attracts bees, birdsDisease and Pest susceptibility: Armillaria, Crown Rot, Fusarium, Phytophthora, Root Rot and AphidsDisease Resistance and Pest Resistance: VerticilliumUtility Friendly: Yes

CITE THIS TREE

"SelecTree. UFEI. "Ceanothus 'Ray Hartman' Tree Record." 1995-2025. Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. Accessed on Apr 3, 2025."
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/282 >

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