Snowbrush (Ceanothus velutinus)

Family: Rhamnaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Ceanothus velutinus is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The leaves are used as a tea substitute. — The leaves are used as a tea substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist soils of hills and mountains to 2,600 metres. It often occurs in draws and on the open face of hills, becoming rapidly established on burnt-over mountain slopes. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)