Heteromeles arbutifolia
Toyon, Christmas Berry
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
Lawn watering more than 5 minutes usually results in runoff. Use multiple cycle starts.