Ceanothus Victoria Blue Flowers 40cm Tall Hardy Evergreen Californian Lilac 3 Litre Pot - RHS Plants for Pollinators

•Flowers: The main highlight of Ceanothus 'Victoria' is its stunning clusters of deep blue to violet-blue flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. These flowers are rich in nectar and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

•Foliage: The plant has glossy, dark green leaves that are often aromatic when crushed, providing a pleasant fragrance.

•Size: This variety typically grows to about 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) in height and width, making it a moderately sized shrub. It can spread out a bit more if left unpruned, but it also responds well to shaping.

•Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for Ceanothus 'Victoria'. It requires plenty of sunlight to produce the most vibrant flowers and to thrive.

•Soil: It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and can handle poor soils as long as they are not too heavy or waterlogged.

•Watering: Although drought-tolerant, regular watering during dry spells helps keep the plant healthy. It is best to water deeply but infrequently to avoid root rot. After establishment, it is relatively low-maintenance in terms of water needs.

•Pruning: Ceanothus 'Victoria' does not require heavy pruning, but it benefits from light shaping after flowering to keep the plant looking neat and encourage new growth. Avoid cutting into old, woody growth, as Ceanothus can be sensitive to hard pruning.

•Pests and Diseases: Ceanothus is generally resistant to pests, but it can sometimes be affected by aphids or spider mites. Powdery mildew can occasionally be a concern in humid or crowded growing conditions, but it's usually not a major issue in well-drained soil and sunny spots.

•Fertilizing: It’s best to avoid heavy fertilization, as Ceanothus plants are naturally adapted to poor soils. If you choose to fertilize, a light application of compost or a low-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring will suffice.

•Ornamental: Ceanothus 'Victoria' is a stunning addition to gardens, particularly in xeriscapes or Mediterranean-style landscapes. It can also be used in coastal gardens as it tolerates salt air.

•Hedges or Borders: Its dense growth habit makes it a good choice for informal hedges or garden borders. The vibrant blue flowers also add a pop of color when planted in groups.

•Wildlife: As mentioned, it attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it beneficial for supporting local wildlife.