Ceanothus ‘Tuxedo’, a cultivar of California Lilac, is a striking evergreen shrub valued for its dramatic foliage contrast and vibrant spring blooms. It’s a standout choice when you want both color and structure in a drought tolerant planting.

The foliage is deep, glossy green with a rich burgundy to almost black undertone, giving the plant a darker, more refined look compared to typical ceanothus varieties. This contrast alone makes it an effective anchor in a design.

In spring, it produces clusters of vivid blue flowers that pop against the dark foliage, creating a bold and eye-catching display. The blooms are also highly attractive to pollinators.

It has a naturally upright to slightly spreading habit, forming a dense shrub that works well as a focal point, backdrop, or informal hedge.

Ceanothus ‘Tuxedo’ is part of the chaparral plant community, making it well adapted to dry summers and low water conditions once established.

It grows best in full sun and requires well drained soil. Like most ceanothus, it performs best with minimal summer irrigation and good air circulation.

It typically reaches about 6 to 8 feet tall and wide, forming a full, structured shrub. It is well suited for USDA zones 8 through 10. The foliage is evergreen.

This plant has low toxicity and is generally safe for gardens with pets and children.

The flowers attract pollinators such as bees.

It is generally deer resistant.

Ceanothus ‘Tuxedo’ fits especially well into native, Mediterranean, and modern garden designs, where its foliage contrast and seasonal bloom can be used to create depth and focal points.

It pairs well with plants like Arctostaphylos ‘Pacific Mist’ to create a layered native groundcover, Salvia clevelandii ‘Winifred Gilman’ to add fragrance and complementary color, and Juncus patens ‘Elk Blue’ to introduce a cool toned, upright texture.

Expert Tip:

Place this in full sun with excellent drainage and avoid summer watering, because it is adapted to dry chaparral conditions and can decline with excess moisture. Giving it space for airflow will also help maintain a healthy, long-lived plant.

— Nick from Rooted Theory