Ceanothus tomentosus ?Rita Margaret? was selected from a ceanothus found growing on the grounds of Moosa Creek Nursery. After observing it for several years we were impressed with its vigor and prolific blooms. It was found growing in an area where we had previously grown a Ceanothus arboreus. We have concluded that ?Rita Margaret? may be an accidental crossing of those two ceanothus. Mature height is 10-12? with a  spread of 8?. The abundant blooms are large and deep blue/purple. The best description is to say that it is a tomentosus on steroids. Particularly impressive is its ability to maintain foliage in summer without supplemental irrigation.This plant was named for Su?s mother  Rita Margaret Jarvis  an avid  award-winning gardener in England.  The resilience  strength and beauty of this plant perfectly mirrors the personality of Rita Margaret Jarvis.