California lilac (Ceanothus × delileanus 'Gloire de Versailles')
Discover Ceanothus × delileanus 'Gloire de Versailles', a deciduous California lilac offering powder blue blooms from June-September in Zones 6-10.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ is a highly valued deciduous hybrid prized for its extended summer flowering display. Boasting panicles of scented, powder blue flowers, this cultivar brightens the garden from early summer well into autumn. Unlike many of its evergreen California cousins, this French hybrid offers reliable performance across a slightly broader range of conditions.
As a medium-sized deciduous shrub, this California lilac typically matures between 3 and 5 feet high and wide, forming a pleasing rounded shape suitable for borders or specimen planting. Its ability to flower well into September provides consistent color when many spring bloomers have faded.
Gardeners appreciate the Ceanothus genus for its ornamental value, and ‘Gloire de Versailles’ offers the classic “California lilac” look in a manageable, deciduous form. While many species thrive in dry, Mediterranean climates, these hybrids manage adaptable conditions, offering excellent floral rewards for medium maintenance efforts.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Rhamnaceae
- Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-10
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 3-5 ft
- Spread: 3-5 ft
- Bloom Time: June to September
- Bloom Description: Powder blue
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
For optimal performance, plant Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ during the cooler months when establishment is easiest. These shrubs demand excellent drainage; site them in average, well-drained soils, benefiting particularly from sandy loams or rocky ground. While they prefer full sun, offering protection from intense afternoon heat with partial shade can be beneficial in hotter climates.
Consistent, medium moisture is required, especially while young. Established shrubs develop deep, woody roots that offer good drought tolerance once settled. Avoid overwatering, as soggy roots are detrimental. Because the root system is tenacious, be aware that established specimens transplant poorly. Site them carefully where they are intended to remain long-term.
Provide protection from strong, sustained winds, which can damage the branches. Maintenance is generally low once established. Minimal pruning is needed unless shaping for hedges or removing spent wood. Avoid heavy fertilization, as this less vigorous shrub does best in lean soils that mimic its native environment.
Landscape Uses
The Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ excels when used in mixed shrub borders, providing a strong vertical element and that signature summer color pop. Its manageable 3 to 5-foot size makes it an excellent candidate for formal or informal hedges where a lower profile is desired compared to taller evergreen varieties. Placing this California lilac against a south-facing wall can maximize sunlight and create a beautiful backdrop for smaller perennials.
Consider pairing this powder blue bloomer with plants that share similar drainage needs but offer contrasting foliage or bloom times. Silver-leaved salvias or structural, deep green evergreens create striking textural contrast against the lighter green leaves of the French hybrid. Utilize its capability as a hedge planting to define sunny garden spaces within USDA Zones 6 through 10.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Ceanothus is a genus containing about 50 species of mostly evergreen, ornamental flowering shrubs of the buckthorn family. Most are native to California (hence the common name of California lilac) with a few from the eastern U. S., Mexico and Guatemala. Unlike many evergreen relatives, the × dilileanus hybrids, including Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’, are deciduous shrubs that grow in a rounded form to 3-5’ tall. They produce scented powder blue flowers in panicles up to 5 inches long, providing extended bloom from June through September.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
Potential Problems
Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ generally avoids serious insect infestations or major diseases. The primary concerns relate to fungal issues spurred by excessive humidity or poor air circulation. Gardeners should watch for leaf spot, a common minor affliction, and powdery mildew, especially if planting in partially shaded, moist locations.
To mitigate these issues, ensure superb air circulation around the plant through appropriate spacing. Good garden hygiene, such as promptly clearing fallen leaves, helps prevent fungal spores from overwintering. If powdery mildew appears, treatment with appropriate fungicides labeled for fungal control can manage the spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is California lilac suitable for?
This California lilac hybrid, Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’, thrives in USDA Zones 6 through 10.
How large does Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ grow?
This shrub typically reaches a mature height between 3 and 5 feet, with a similar spread of 3 to 5 feet.
What sun exposure does Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ need?
It prefers full sun but tolerates and often appreciates some part shade, especially during the hottest part of the afternoon.
When does Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ bloom?
This cultivar offers reliable bloom time from June through September, displaying highly attractive powder blue flowers.
Conclusion
The beauty of the Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ lies in its long season of performance, offering reliable, fragrant, blue blooms well into the late summer months. This deciduous California lilac is a manageable, medium-sized shrub ideal for sunny borders and hedges across Zones 6 to 10. Plan your site selection carefully, prioritizing excellent drainage, and enjoy the extended splendor of this unique French hybrid.
Companion Planting Strategy
Selecting companions for Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ should focus on plants that also favor sharp drainage and tolerate moderate dryness once established. Pairing it with drought-tolerant perennials like Lavender (Lavandula) or various ornamental grasses complements its structure and water needs beautifully. For a Mediterranean feel, consider pairing it with native sages (Salvia) that echo its blue tones.
Avoid heavy feeders or moisture-loving plants near the base of this shrub. Since the California lilac dislikes root disturbance, choose perennials that establish quickly or are slow-growing groundcovers that will not fight for space with its deep, woody root system. Focus on textural contrast—fine-leaved companions accentuate the broad leaves of the Ceanothus.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring is crucial for preparing Ceanothus × delileanus ‘Gloire de Versailles’ for its long bloom season. After the last risk of hard frost, perform minimal cleanup, removing only dead or erratic winter growth. Avoid heavy spring pruning, as major cuts can disrupt flowering cycles for this fast-growing deciduous variety.
Summer care revolves around watchful watering—maintain medium moisture levels without allowing saturation, especially during heat waves. If you notice signs of leaf spot, increase airflow around the plant immediately. Be mindful that the shrub relies on deep roots, so deep, infrequent watering is preferred over shallow daily sprinkles.
As autumn approaches, cease supplemental watering toward the end of the season to harden off the shrub before winter dormancy. In colder Zone 6 locations, ensure the location is protected from harsh winter winds, as exposure can be more damaging than the cold itself once the Ceanothus is established.
