The Chumash people called both Bigpod (Ceanothus megacarpus) and Buckbrush (Ceanothus cuneatus) “White Ceanothus”. Many ceanothus shrubs are flowering in huge sprays of white blossoms on lower Figueroa Mountain. Although I always thought the Ceanothus in this location was Buckbrush Ceanothus, I have titled this post ‘White Ceanothus” because I am not sure.

(Ceanothus - February 27, 2008)

I have learned that Buckbrush has opposite, wedge-shaped leaves. I forgot to check whether the leaves that sometimes seem wedge-shaped and sometimes not on the same bush, were opposite or not. I have also learned that Buckbrush grows in serpentine soils, and since serpentine rocks can be found nearby, all signs point toward Buckbrush. I need to check the leaves the next time I am there.

(Ceanothus - February 27, 2008)

Nevertheless, this is a heads up to a glorious display of Ceanothus on lower Figueroa Mountain. On edit - I have been told that it is Buckbrush; there is no Bigpod that far from the coast. Buckbrush has opposite leaves; Bigpod has alternate leaves, with different fruits. Thanks!

Slide show - click on link below for photos

• 9 photos have been added to the Figueroa 2008 slideshow