Family: Rhamnaceae
Author: Torr.
Bibliography: “Pacif. Railr. Rep. 4(5,1):75. 1857 (“”1856″”)”
Year: 1910
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Ceanothus
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: S. California to Mexico (NW. Baja California), Guadalupe
Description
Hoary-leaf ceanothus, known scientifically as Ceanothus crassifolius, is a notable member of the Buckthorn family, Rhamnaceae. This plant is native to regions stretching from Southern California all the way to Northwest Baja California, Mexico, including the island of Guadalupe.
The hoary-leaf ceanothus is recognized for its dense and leathery leaves, which possess a distinctive grayish or hoary appearance due to fine, felt-like hairs on their surfaces. These leaves are typically thick and tough, adaptations that help the plant conserve moisture and thrive in the arid climates where it is commonly found.
In its native habitat, Ceanothus crassifolius often forms dense thickets, contributing to the chaparral and coastal sage scrub ecosystems. The plant blooms profusely, showcasing clusters of small white to pale blue flowers. These blossoms not only add a splash of color to the landscape but also provide essential resources for a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Historically, the hoary-leaf ceanothus was documented in “Pacif. Railr. Rep.” in 1857 under the authorship of Torr., which highlights its long-standing recognition within botanical literature. This documentation underscores the plant’s enduring significance in the botanical community.
Given its native range and typical growing conditions, Ceanothus crassifolius serves as an important species for xeriscaping and native plant gardening in regions with Mediterranean climates. Its drought tolerance makes it an excellent choice for sustainable landscaping, requiring minimal water once established. Additionally, its dense foliage provides habitat and shelter for various local wildlife.
In summary, the hoary-leaf ceanothus is an integral component of its native ecosystems in Southern California and Mexico. With its distinct morphology and adaptive resilience, this plant continues to be a subject of interest for botanists and horticulturists alike.
Common Names
Eng: hoary-leaf ceanothus, hoaryleaf ceanothus, thickleaf ceanothus, thickleaf wild lilac
En: Hoary-leaf ceanothus, Hoaryleaf ceanothus, Thickleaf ceanothus, Thickleaf wild lilac
Synonyms
- Ceanothus verrucosus var. crassifolius ((Torr.) K.Brandegee)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Mexican Pacific Is. (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3039308)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:716787-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ceanothus crassifolius Torr.)
