Redstem Ceanothus
Ceanothus sanguineus
Rhamnaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · native
Last updated
Redstem ceanothus (Ceanothus sanguineus, Rhamnaceae) is a native shrub ranging from southern British Columbia to northern California, eastward to Idaho and Montana. It reaches 3 to 10 feet tall with an erect, multi-stemmed form. Small white or pinkish flowers appear in clusters up to 4 centimeters long in spring. Reddish stems provide winter landscape interest.
Redstem ceanothus grows in sun to part shade on wet-tolerant soils (pH 6.5 to 8.0) with high water needs, hardy in Zones 7a to 8b. It is fire resistant with resprout ability and medium drought tolerance. Growth is slow. Documented diseases include leaf spot and root rot; pest associations include ceanothus leafminer, root weevil, and whitefly. No cultivars are in the trade.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
| Stage | Typical Window |
|---|---|
| Bud break BBCH 07 | Feb 15-Mar 15 |
| Leaf emergence BBCH 11 | Mar 1-Apr 1 |
| Bloom start BBCH 61 | Apr 1-Apr 30 |
| Bloom end / petal fall BBCH 69 | Apr 15-May 15 |
| Fruit/seed development BBCH 71 | Jun 1-Aug 31 |
| Fruit/seed maturity BBCH 85 | Sep 1-Nov 30 |
| Leaf drop BBCH 93 | Oct 15-Nov 30 |
| Dormancy BBCH 97 | Nov 15-Feb 28 |