Cup-leaved ceanothus (Ceanothus perplexans) is an evergreen flowering shrub in the Rhamnaceae or buckthorn family. It is native to California, southwestern Arizona, and Baja California where it grows in chaparral and desert scrub communities at elevations between 300 and 2100 meters. Its leaves are a defining characteristic: waxy or leathery and cupped, which gives the plant its common name. In spring, it produces clusters of white flowers.

Ceanthous is tough and adaptable to different types of soil so long as it is well-draining. It will even grow well in serpentine soil. It is recommended as both an informal hedge and a garden focus.  As a drought-tolerant species, it requires little supplemental water once established.

The flowers attract pollinators such as butterflies (hairstreaks, swallowtails, admirals, etc) & native bees.