Heteromeles arbutifolia
Toyon or Christmasberry
One of California's most deeply emblematic species, Toyon is a large shrub to medium tree with evergreen foliage, a big white bloom in summer, and abundant red berries in December (hence the alternative common name "Christmas Berry"). Excellent as a hedgerow or other screen, but also wonderful as a specimen plant or focal point in the garden. One of the best native species to attract birds and other beneficial wildlife. Here's a detailed discussion of Toyon.
'Sunrise' Toyon has a mix of orange and red, eventually ripening to mostly red.
Christmas wreath with Monterey Cypress.
As a chapparall element in coastal scrub on Montara Mountain.
In bloom. Subtle from a distance but up close, it's buzzing with bees in a late summer crescendo.
'Sunrise' Toyon has a mix of orange and red, eventually ripening to mostly red. The yellow-berried form has been called var. cerina by Jepson.
Serration on the leaves varies by population.
Check availability of Heteromeles arbutifolia at the nursery
Check availability of Heteromeles at the nursery
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