Point Reyes ceanothus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Point Reyes ceanothus |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ceanothus
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| Species: |
gloriosus
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The Point Reyes Ceanothus (Ceanothus gloriosus) is a beautiful shrub found mostly in California. It belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. This plant is special because it only grows in certain parts of California, like the coast near the San Francisco Bay Area. You can find it on cliffs by the sea or on hillsides.
This shrub can grow in different ways. Some plants spread out flat like a mat, while others stand up tall, almost reaching two meters (about 6.5 feet) high. Its leaves stay green all year. They grow in pairs on opposite sides of the stem and are usually round or oval, up to 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) long. The edges of the leaves have small teeth, and sometimes these teeth have tiny spines.
In spring, the Point Reyes Ceanothus shows off small groups of bright blue or purple flowers. After the flowers, it grows small, horned fruits that are about 4 millimeters (less than half an inch) wide.
Different Kinds of Point Reyes Ceanothus
There are three main types, or varieties, of this plant:
- C. g. var. exaltatus (glory bush): This type is found north of the San Francisco Bay Area.
- C. g. var. gloriosus (glory mat): This variety is smaller and grows flat like a mat. It is mostly found in Marin County.
- C. g. var. porrectus (Mt. Vision ceanothus): This is a rare type that only grows in Marin County, near Point Reyes.
Growing Point Reyes Ceanothus
People often grow the Point Reyes Ceanothus in their gardens. It is popular in the plant-growing business, called horticulture. Many gardeners use it in native plant landscaping because it is a plant that naturally grows in California. It is also known for being able to handle dry weather.
