*NATIVE PLANT OF THE WEEK*⁠ Blueblossom Ceanothus (Ceanothus thyrsiflorus, Zones 7–11)⁠ ⁠ This handsome evergreen shrub needs Mediterranean climate conditions to grow successfully. Even then, it is naturally short-lived, lasting 20 to 25 years, but it will reward lucky gardeners with a profusion of blue flowers in spring that draws a variety of pollinators. It’s also known as California lilac and mountain lilac, although it is not related to lilac (Syringa spp.).⁠ ⁠ Native to canyons, scrublands, and coniferous forests in coastal California and Oregon.⁠ ⁠ At a Glance⁠ • Grows quickly to 6 to 20 feet tall⁠ • Small flowers grow in many 3-inch clusters, mainly blue but sometimes white⁠ • Blooms April–June⁠ • Flowers have a mild honeylike fragrance⁠ • Shiny oval, evergreen leaves with toothed edges⁠ ⁠ ⁠ Why Grow It⁠ • Flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators⁠ • Fruits provide seeds for birds⁠ • Fixes nitrogen in soil⁠ • Drought tolerant⁠ • Low maintenance and not generally bother...