Ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'Zanzibar' is a striking variegated form of the popular California Lilac, prized for its eye-catching foliage and abundant blue flowers. The glossy evergreen leaves are edged with bright golden-yellow margins, providing year-round colour and interest even when the plant is not in bloom. In late spring to early summer, clusters of soft blue flowers smother the branches, attracting bees, butterflies and other pollinators to the garden.

This hardy evergreen shrub is well suited to sunny, sheltered borders, wall-side plantings and larger containers. Its upright, bushy habit makes it an excellent focal point or backdrop plant, and the variegated foliage adds a splash of colour to mixed planting schemes throughout the year.

What's Included:

• 1 x Ceanothus Thyrsiflorus 'Zanzibar' plant supplied in a 3L pot

Cultural Information:

• Botanical Name: Ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'Zanzibar'


• Common Names: Variegated California Lilac, Zanzibar California Lilac


• Classification: Evergreen shrub


• Fully Grown Height & Spread: Up to 1.5m × 1.5m


• Growth Habit: Bushy, Upright Evergreen Shrub


• Perfect For: Sunny Borders, Wall-Side Plantings, Sheltered Gardens, Large Containers


• Flowering Time: Late Spring to Early Summer


• Flower Colour: Soft Blue


• Planting Position: Full Sun, Sheltered


• Soil Requirements: Well-Drained Soil; Avoid Waterlogged or Chalky Conditions


• Hardiness: Hardy (tolerates temperatures down to approximately -10°C once established)


• Attracts: Bees, Butterflies & Pollinators


• Type: Hardy Evergreen Shrub


• Foliage: Glossy Green Leaves with Bright Golden-Yellow Margins, Evergreen


• Pruning: Light trim after flowering if needed to maintain shape; avoid cutting into old wood

Planting & Care Tips:

• Plant in a warm, sunny and sheltered position for the best foliage colour and flowering.
• Ensure soil is well-drained; Ceanothus does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
• Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system.
• Once established, Ceanothus is relatively drought tolerant.
• Apply a mulch around the base in spring to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as Ceanothus does not regenerate well from mature stems.

Notes: This is the variegated 'Zanzibar' variety, distinguished by its golden-edged evergreen foliage. Plant dimensions and flower intensity may vary depending on growing conditions and maturity.