Lemmon's ceanothus facts for kids

Ceanothus lemmonii, also known as Lemmon's ceanothus, is a type of shrub that belongs to the plant family Rhamnaceae. This special plant is found only in California, which means it is endemic to that state. You can find it growing on the wooded hillsides of the Inner North Coast Ranges and the Sierra Nevada foothills. These areas are located to the west and east of the Sacramento Valley.

Lemmon's Ceanothus: A California Shrub

Lemmon's ceanothus is a beautiful shrub that adds color to the California landscape. It's known for its pretty blue or purple flowers and its ability to grow in tough, dry conditions. This plant is an important part of the natural environment where it lives.

What Does Lemmon's Ceanothus Look Like?

This shrub typically spreads out, growing to about one meter (around three feet) tall and a bit wider. Imagine a bushy plant that's wider than it is tall!

• Stems: The older, woody parts of the plant are usually gray. But the new twigs that grow are green, and they can be a bit hairy or even sticky.
• Leaves: Lemmon's ceanothus has evergreen leaves, which means they stay green all year long, even in winter. The leaves grow one after another along the stem. Each leaf is shaped like an oval and has a dull green color. If you look closely, the underside of the leaf is quite hairy, while the top surface has fewer hairs. The edges of the leaves have tiny, sticky teeth, which are actually small glands.

Its Flowers and Fruit

One of the most striking features of Lemmon's ceanothus is its amazing flowers.

• Flowers: This plant produces many flowers that grow in clusters. These clusters are called inflorescences. The flowers can be a pale blue, a bright blue, or even a lovely purple color. They add a splash of vibrant color to the hillsides where the plant grows.
• Fruit: After the flowers bloom, the plant produces small fruits. These fruits are smooth capsules, only a few millimeters long. Inside these capsules are the seeds that will grow into new plants.

Where Does Lemmon's Ceanothus Grow?

Lemmon's ceanothus is a true Californian native. It thrives in specific parts of the state, particularly on the slopes that have some trees.

• Inner North Coast Ranges: This area is located in the western part of California. The plant enjoys the conditions found on these wooded hillsides.
• Sierra Nevada Foothills: On the eastern side of the Sacramento Valley, you'll find the Sierra Nevada foothills. This is another key habitat for Lemmon's ceanothus, where it can be seen growing among other native plants.

This plant is well-adapted to the climate of California, which often includes dry summers. Its ability to grow in these specific regions makes it a unique and important part of California's natural plant life.