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
Shrub
Height Range
6-12', 12-25'
Width Range
3-6', 6-12', 12-25'
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
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
Fragrance
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Foundation, Patio, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Wind Break, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Hummingbirds
Water Saving Tip:
Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs.
If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.