Monterey Ceanothus
Ceanothus cuneatus var. rigidus
Rhamnaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · introduced
Last updated
You encounter Monterey Ceanothus as a densely branched shrub variant with rigid growth habit, representing a specialized form suited to coastal and rocky sites. The cultivar Snowball offers white flowers and compact growth (3-6 feet), distinguishing it from the parent species.
This ceanothus performs best in full sun with low water needs and excellent drainage; avoid wet, heavy soils. It tolerates poor, infertile sites well. Monterey Ceanothus expects the same pest and disease pressures as the species: leaf spot and root rot in heavy, wet conditions. Prune in late winter or early spring. Limited specific data exists for this variety; consult parent species guidance when management questions arise.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of May 24, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 2172.5 to 2394 GDD₃₂. Monterey Ceanothus has passed 'flower buds visible' (1334 GDD₃₂).
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of May 24, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 2,394 | 'Flower buds visible' | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 2,373 | 'Flower buds visible' | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 2,332 | 'Flower buds visible' | — | — |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 2,295 | 'Flower buds visible' | — | — |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 2,259 | 'Flower buds visible' | — | — |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 2,256 | 'Flower buds visible' | — | — |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 2,173 | 'Flower buds visible' | — | — |
View full calendar (2 stages)
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'First bloom' BBCH '61' | 1334 | '' |
| ● 'Flower buds visible' BBCH '51' NOW | 1334 | '' |
Source: 'NPN citizen science observations (WA+OR), n=6, median. services.usanpn.org' About GDD₃₂ →
Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of May 24, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through Jun 9, 2026, then climate normals.