Description
The aromatic evergreen foliage of snowbrush provides year-round interest, but the creamy white flower clusters steal the show in the spring. Snowbrush is a species of shrub in the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae) that also goes by the common names red root and tobacco brush. This western native grows in various habitat types and can be found growing as a solitary shrub or in dense thickets. The aromatic, large oval leaves are shiny green. Snowbrush generally grows 6′-10′ tall in an upright to mounding habit. It will grow best in full sun but it tolerates partial shade. Snowbrush is nitrogen fixing and prefers coarse, well-drained loose loam, sandy or clay soil, or rocky conditions. Very drought tolerant and attractive to many pollinator species.
Snowbrush (Ceanothus velutinus) seed packets contain approximately 180 seeds.
Seed Germination Instructions
Soak in hot (not boiling) water for 24 hours, then 60-90 days cold-moist stratification. Sow outside in fall to late winter.
