Marie Bleu Mountain Lilac

MARIE BLEU® is the trade name for the compact New Jersey tea selection Ceanothus x pallidus 'Minmari', bred by Minier Nursery in France. Its misty blue flower heads appear in early summer, followed by glossy red seed heads that extend seasonal interest. [Spring Meadow Nursery](https://springmeadownursery.com/plantfinder/marie-bleu-09010) gives a mature height and spread of 2–3 feet and USDA Zones 6–9 for this exact selection. ## Siting and growth Plant in full sun for the strongest flowering; the breeder also lists part sun. The compact 2–3 foot dimensions suit smaller borders and foundation plantings, and the plant is described as drought tolerant and deer resistant. Keep the trade name distinct from the cultivar denomination: Minmari is the cultivar and MARIE BLEU® is its marketed name. ## Maintenance Provide water while the plant establishes, then avoid persistently wet soil. The exact cultivar page notes that this variety is no longer offered by Spring Meadow Nursery, so use the botanical denomination when checking other suppliers or matching plant records.