Snowbrush Ceanothus
Ceanothus velutinus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–120" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
ID
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Snowbrush ceanothus is a robust evergreen shrub that produces clusters of fragrant white flowers from late spring through summer. This drought-tolerant native can grow quite large, making it suitable for areas where you need substantial screening or backdrop plantings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Snowbrush Ceanothus is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Can become quite large and sprawling without pruning
- May appear too wild or informal for conservative HOAs
- Needs space to reach natural size
Wildlife value
Host plant for Pale Swallowtail, Brown Elfin.
The abundant white flower clusters attract numerous bees and butterflies during the long bloom period. Birds also benefit from the small seeds produced after flowering.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Snowbrush Ceanothus fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.