Ceanothus prostratus aka Mahala Mat

Ceanothus prostratus, also known as prostrate ceanothus, pinemat, and mahala mat, is a species of shrub in the family Rhamnaceae. Native to the Pacific Northwest of the United States, this creeping, evergreen shrub can spread up to 1.5m wide. It has leathery, dark green, toothed leaves and produces masses of bright blue flowers in the spring. Growing up to 6 inches tall and about 8 ft. wide, Ceanothus prostratus forms a flat, mat-like shape. Its oval-shaped, evergreen leaves are oppositely arranged with sharp teeth along the edges and a green, hairless upper surface. The flower cluster consists of small, deep blue or purple flowers, and the fruit is a wrinkled capsule. This shrub thrives in the understory of mixed conifer forests, as well as in open flats, ridges, and low chaparral areas. It can be found at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 9,000 ft. However, it is notoriously difficult to cultivate due to unknown factors.