Ceanothus perplexans is an evergreen shrub that typically grows 1 to 3 meters tall with spreading, intricately branched stems.

[2] Ceanothus perplexans is found in chaparral and desert scrub communities of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

[3][2] It tolerates poor, well-drained soils including rocky or sandy substrates of a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.

[3] Ceanothus perplexans is not considered threatened or endangered, having a relatively wide distribution.

However, habitat loss and fragmentation due to development and agriculture can pose potential threats in certain parts of its range.