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California Native Plant

Heteromeles arbutifolia

Toyon, Christmas Berry

Plant photo of: Heteromeles arbutifolia
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Information by:         Photographer: West/Normans/Frommer

 

Description

Toyon is a California native evergreen shrub that grows 8'-15'. high and spreading 8'. It has leathery, toothed, green leaves. Small, white, fragrant flowers appear in late spring or early summer, followed by clusters of red winter berries. It tolerates full sun or partial shade, heat, smog, wind and heavy or light soils. Established plants are drought tolerant. It may take several years for plant to be established; at that point, it's great for erosion control.

 

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Height Range

6-12', 12-25'

Width Range

6-12'

Flower Color

White

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

Red

Fruit Season

Winter, Fall

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Very Low, Low

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Ranch, Seascape, Spanish

Accenting Features

n/a

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Foundation, Patio

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Wind Break, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing, Small Spaces

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Hummingbirds

Water Saving Tip:

Irrigate in the early morning to minimize evaporation.