Redstem Ceanothus

You recognize Redbark Ceanothus by its distinctive red to burgundy twigs and profuse white flower clusters, making it prominent in disturbed and dry slope habitats throughout the interior Pacific Northwest. This native deciduous shrub favors open, sunny sites where it colonizes readily.

Redbark Ceanothus reaches 6-12 feet tall in full sun with low to moderate water needs and exceptional drought tolerance (zones 5a-8b). It thrives on poor, well-drained soils and fixes nitrogen, enriching degraded sites. Fast-growing and fire-adapted with strong resprouting ability, it suits restoration plantings. Prune in late winter before growth. Watch for the same ceanothus diseases and insect issues; root rot develops in heavy, wet soils.