Where to Find California Lilac Trees for Sale

California lilac trees, also known as Ceanothus, are gorgeous flowering shrubs that are perfect for gardens in California and other western states With their clusters of blue, purple, or white blooms and their low maintenance needs, California lilacs add color and texture to spaces year-round If you’re looking to add some of these beauties to your outdoor space, here’s where to find California lilac trees for sale.

A Bit About the California Lilac

Before jumping into the best places to buy California lilacs, let’s go over a few things about this plant. There are over 50 species of Ceanothus, and they are native to the western United States and Mexico. These are evergreen shrubs with petite, oval green leaves and puffy flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers come in shades of dark or light blue, purple, and white.

California lilac shrubs grow from 5-10 feet tall and wide, depending on the variety. They tolerate heat, wind, drought, deer, and poor soil. Once established, these woody shrubs require very little care. Lilacs prefer full sun and good drainage. Prune them immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year’s flower buds.

Beautiful, hardy, and easy to care for, it’s no wonder California lilac trees are treasured additions to western gardens. Their flowers also attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Now let’s look at some places where you can find these special plants for sale.

California Lilacs at Local Nurseries

Checking out your local independent nurseries is a great place to start your search for California lilacs, Reputable local nurseries often carry a nice selection of these flowering shrubs Try going in the spring to have the best opportunity for finding healthy plants in stock

Know that stocks will vary by location and season. Ask the nursery staff for help locating their Ceanothus collection. Describe the color of blooms and mature size you’re interested in. Often the staff can make personalized recommendations to match your space and needs.

Buying from a local nursery allows you to see the plants in person before purchasing. Check for signs of healthy growth and make sure the roots are not pot bound. Purchasing from a local nursery also means less transport stress for your new lilac tree.

Ordering California Lilacs Online

Another option for finding California lilac trees for sale is ordering from an online nursery, Buying plants online provides convenience and more variety to choose from Reputable online sellers like Green Acres Nursery offer a wide selection of Ceanothus species and cultivars

When ordering plants online, look for detailed information on plant size, bloom color, care needs, and growing zones. Use this info to select a variety suited for your climate and space restrictions. Order early in the season before stocks sell out.

Expect shipping delays of 1-2 weeks when ordering nursery plants online. Make sure to plant your new lilac ASAP once it arrives. Follow planting guidelines from the seller for best results.

Check With Local Ceanothus Societies

If you live in California, joining a local Ceanothus society can help you find prized California lilac specimens. These groups exist to promote the conservation and cultivation of wild lilacs. Members get access to specialty plant sales, horticulture lectures, and field trips.

Getting involved with groups like the California Lilac Society allows you to connect with experts on all things Ceanothus. Members can provide tips on the best native species or cultivars for your garden conditions. And you may get first dibs on California lilac group plant orders.

Grow From Seeds

For the most variety, you can try growing California lilac trees from seed. This is a fun way to end up with unique new hybrids. Collect ripe seeds in the fall from established plants and refrigerate them for a couple months. In winter, plant the seeds in containers indoors. Transplant the seedlings into your garden after the last frost.

Growing California lilacs from seed provides an opportunity to create your own cultivars. But it does require more time, effort, and patience than buying mature nursery plants. And there’s no guarantee of flower color and other traits until the plants reach maturity.

Transplant Wild Specimens

In some cases it is possible to legally collect and transplant native Ceanothus plants from the wild. Always check regulations first, as many states restrict digging up native flora from public lands. In California, lilacs can only be collected from private property with the landowner’s permission.

Wild specimens give your garden an authentic sense of place. And transplants from nearby regions have the advantage of already being acclimated to the local environment. Go this route only if you can ethically and legally acquire plants. Avoid endangering fragile wild populations by over collecting.

Key Tips for Buying California Lilacs

• Seek out varieties suitable for your USDA hardiness zone. Most do best in zones 7-10.

• Select placement with full sun and well-draining soil. Avoid overly windy, exposed sites.

• Give new transplants regular water until established. Then water only during droughts.

• Add organic compost to planting sites in nutrient-poor native soils.

• Prune immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year’s flower buds.

• Be patient for the best floral display. Most take 2-3 years to reach maturity and full bloom.

With their ease of care and three season interest, California lilac trees make excellent additions to western gardens. Follow these tips to track down the perfect Ceanothus species or cultivars for your space. Soon you’ll be enjoying the vibrant flower show as these beauties attract pollinators and admiring glances.