California scheming

With vivid colours and big impact, Californian lilac is a dream in spring

- DIARMUD GAVIN

One of the many beautiful sights in the spring garden is a ceanothus in full bloom. Also known as Californian lilac, it has vivid blue pompom like flowers.

Depending on the variety, it may be a shrub or small tree.

Native to the US, Mexico and Guatemala, it can still make itself at home in the British Isles.

What it does like are conditions similar to its Californian roots - good drainage and plenty of sunshine. In more exposed situations, the best choice will be the shelter and warmth of a south facing wall.

It's happy in most soils except shallow chalky ones and its ability to tolerate salt-laden winds makes it a good choice for coastal areas.

Pollinating insects give ceanothus the thumbs up as well, with butterflies, moths and bees attracted to it pollen and nectar-rich flowers.