Mountain sweet (Ceanothus americanus) see-ah-NO-thuss ah-mer-ih-KAY-nus Genus:  Ceanothus

Mountain sweet is a low-growing, broad, compact, deciduous shrub. Dark-green leaves are irregularly toothed, 2 to 3 inches long, and softly hairy or nearly hairless beneath. This plant bears profuse white flowers in 1- to 2-inch-long terminal clusters.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Tolerates poor growing conditions. Native to the eastern U.S.

Care: 

Ideally, plant in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Relatively lime tolerant. Expect 5-10 years' lifespan. Prune in early spring, followed by mulch and balanced fertilizer application.

Propagation: 

Root greenwood cuttings in mid- or late summer.

Problems: 

Dieback, powdery mildew, mushroom root rot, fungal leaf spots, and Verticillium wilt are common. Caterpillars, scale insects, lacebug, and mealybugs occur.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft. Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Native, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Summer, Summer Flower Color White Uses Beds and Borders, Trellis Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs