Prunus ilicifolia
Hollyleaf Cherry
Description
Hollyleaf cherry or Evergreen cherry is a species in the Rosaceae (Rose) family that is native to coastal California and northern Baja California. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree up to 15 meters tall, with dense, sclerophyllous foliage. The leaves are 1.6-12 centimeters long with a 4-25 millimeter petiole and spiny margins, somewhat resembling those of the holly, hence its English name; they are dark green when mature and generally shiny on top, and have a smell resembling almonds when crushed. The flowers are small (1-5 millimeters), white, produced on racemes in the spring. The fruit is a cherry 12-25 millimeters in diameter, edible and sweet, but contains little flesh surrounding the smooth seed. Great for birds.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
6-12', 25-40'
Flower Color
White
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Red
Fruit Season
Fall
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Ranch, Seascape
Accenting Features
Fall Color, Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Fall
Location Uses
Background
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Wind Break, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Birds
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.