Plant Library

New Jersey Tea

Common Name: New JerseyTea

Botanical Name: Ceanothus americanus

Variety: N/A

Blossom Color: White

Bloom Time: Jun-Aug

Zone: 3 to 9

Exposure: Sun to Part Sun

Mature Height: 24-36"

Mature Width: 18-36"

Notes: Spectacular display of fragrant white blooms from June to August covering the mounded shrub. Sturdy little bush with striking dark green foliage that provides visual interest even when not in bloom. Works equally well in traditional landscapes and naturalized areas. Nitrogen-fixing species. Prefers medium-dry soils, but can tolerate rocky soil. Blooms best in full sun. Thick roots make it drought tolerant, but also difficult to move once established. Blooms on new wood, so prune early in the season. An important host plant for Spring Azure and Summer Azure caterpillars. Also attracts bees and hummingbirds and its seeds provide food for wild turkeys and quail. Has been listed as of special value to native bees especially bumblebees.