Heteromeles arbutifolia
Toyon, Christmas Berry, Calif. Holl
Description
Toyon is a California native evergreen shrub/small tree that grows 20'-25' high and spreading 15'. It has leathery toothed leaves, white summer flowers and clusters of red winter berries. It tolerates full sun or partial shade, heat, smog, wind and heavy or light soils. It is drought tolerant, attracts beneficial insects and hummingbirds. Wildlife love the berries. It's used as a screen or small shade tree. Very reliable and hardy.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
White
Flower Season
Summer
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Red
Fruit Season
Winter, Fall
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Very 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, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Wind Break, Shade Tree, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing, Small Spaces
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Hummingbirds
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.