Ceanothus thyr. repens

Overview and Features

Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. repens is a low-growing, evergreen groundcover shrub admired for its masses of sky-blue flowers and dense green foliage. It is one of the hardiest and most versatile California lilacs, ideal for spreading across banks, walls, or as a front-of-border shrub.

Blooming in late spring to early summer, this variety offers a soft, coastal feel with a neat, trailing habit. Its dark green, glossy leaves provide excellent year-round coverage, and its spring bloom is a favourite of bees and butterflies.

• Low-growing, spreading form – usually 30–90 cm tall, spreading up to 2–3 metres wide

• Bright blue flowers in late spring to early summer

• Attractive evergreen foliage

• Drought-tolerant once established

• Excellent for slopes, retaining walls, sunny borders, and wildlife gardens

Growing Conditions and Maintenance

This Ceanothus variety is easy to care for, provided it is grown in well-drained soil and a sunny spot. It is ideal for low-maintenance, water-wise gardens.

• Light Requirements:

  • Requires full sun for best flowering and compact growth

  • Will tolerate very light shade, but with fewer flowers

• Soil Preferences:

  • Grows best in well-drained soil

  • Prefers neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, but tolerates acidic soils

  • Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay areas

• Watering:

  • Water regularly during the first year to establish

  • Once established, it is drought-tolerant

  • Avoid overwatering—this plant thrives on dryish conditions

• Feeding:

  • Generally does not need feeding in fertile soils

  • Apply a light mulch in spring—avoid rich composts

• Pruning and Maintenance:

  • Prune lightly after flowering to shape and encourage dense growth

  • Avoid cutting into old wood—it may not resprout

  • Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring

Seasonal Appeal and Garden Uses

Ceanothus 'Repens' is widely used for its ground-hugging habit, evergreen texture, and pollinator value. It is a standout performer in coastal, Mediterranean, or wildlife-friendly gardens.

• Best Uses:

  • Groundcover on banks and slopes

  • Spilling over retaining walls or low borders

  • In front of larger shrubs or in dry garden beds

  • Ideal for coastal and low-water landscapes

• Companion Plants:

  • Excellent with Lavender, Rosemary, Cistus, Eryngium, and grasses

  • Complements silver foliage plants and Mediterranean herbs

• Wildlife Benefits:

  • Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects

  • Evergreen shelter for small birds and insects year-round

• Hardiness:

  • Hardy in most of the UK (RHS H4)

  • Protect from cold drying winds in exposed areas

  • May benefit from winter mulch around roots in very cold regions

• Size
  5 Ltr pot

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

Click here for more information about our shipping conditions.

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If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.