I have 2 ceanothus julia phelps I bought earlier this year. When I check some information about this plant, I was worried if I can leave it in the garden in the winter? Is it hardy enough for Vancouver's winter? Anyone out there grow this plant? How do you like it. Thanks.
It should be plenty hardy in Vancouver, especially if it is not in wet soil. It can show some winter damage in severe winter storms, but Vancouver doesn't get the cold Fraser valley outflow winds that typically burn the more tender Ceanothus.
Foss/Wilken, CEANOTHUS (Timber Press) say (in part): "'Julia Phelps' is similar to the hybrid 'Dark Star' with deep cobalt-blue flowers in abundant, 1-inch clusters. Also comparable in size, it grows to 8 feet tall but with a wider, expansive habit to 12 feet or more. The leaves are a little darker but of equal size, and in containers it is extremely difficult to distinguish the difference between the two. Like 'Dark Star' it is a short-lived selection and temperamental when used away from the coast and in heavier soils. Full sun and well-drained soil are recommended, and it is hardy to 15F (-9C)."
