Wasowski, Sally and Andy
Heteromeles arbutifolia (Lindl.) M. Roemer
Toyon, California Christmasberry, Christmasberry, California holly, Hollywood
Rosaceae (Rose Family)
A freely branched,
evergreen shrub or small
tree which can grow 15-20 ft. tall but usually is 6-8 ft. high and 4-5 ft. wide. Leathery, dark-green leaves provide a background for profuse white blooms and long-lasting displays of bright-red berries. The flowers and berries occur in large, terminal clusters. One of the most beautiful
native shrubs or small trees,
evergreen, with short trunk, many branches, and rounded crown.
The only species in its
genus, Toyon is very showy in winter with
evergreen leaves and abundant red
fruit and is popular for Christmas decorations. A pioneer plant on eroded soil, it sprouts vigorously after fire or cutting. The common name Toyon is derived from an Ohlone word for the plant, and Hollywood, California, is thought to be named for it. It was once a major component of the chaparral that made up the original Hollywood landscape.
Image Gallery:
3 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Shrub Leaf Retention: Evergreen Flower:
Fruit: Size Class: 12-36 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Jun , Jul , Aug , Sep
Distribution
USA: CA , HI
Native Distribution: CA & Baja CA
Native Habitat: Semi-dry, brushy slopes, foothills & canyons below 4000 ft.
USDA Native Status: L48(N), HI(I) Growing Conditions
Light Requirement: Sun , Part Shade , Shade
Soil Moisture: Dry
Soil Description: Poor, dry, well-drained soil.
Conditions Comments: Adaptable, long-lived and drought-tolerant. Berries last from Nov. to Feb. Susceptible to fire blight and black mildew, especially near the coast. Tolerates serpentine soil. Exhibits allelopathic tendencies.
Benefit
Use Ornamental: As a hedge.
Use Wildlife: Birds eat berries.
Use Food: Indigenous peoples cooked and ate the berries. They are toxic in large amounts.
Warning: Berries are toxic in large amounts.
Attracts: Birds
Last Update: 2010-12-15
