Toyon
Heteromeles arbutifolia
Also listed as Photinia arbutifolia, Crataegus arbutifolia
Also known as Christmas Berry, California Holly
Climate Match for your location
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A California native shrub with white flowers in spring and bright red berries in fall and winter that persist for months. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and attractive to birds.
Why grow it
Toyon offers reliable fall and winter color in Mediterranean climates where many shrubs fade or drop foliage. Compared to other California native ornamentals, it combines moderate size (8-10 feet), minimal water needs once established, and persistent fruit that provides sustained wildlife value across seasons. It performs well in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade, making it suitable for both coastal and inland gardens within its native range.
Watch out for
Toyon can take several years to reach productive fruiting, particularly from young nursery stock. Heavy pruning or frequent harvesting of berries will reduce the following year's flowering and berry set, so plan accordingly if using the plant for both ornament and harvest.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California native
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A California native shrub with white flowers in spring and bright red berries in fall and winter that persist for months. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and attractive to birds.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Toyon grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Toyon offers reliable fall and winter color in Mediterranean climates where many shrubs fade or drop foliage. Compared to other California native ornamentals, it combines moderate size (8-10 feet), minimal water needs once established, and persistent fruit that provides sustained wildlife value across seasons. It performs well in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade, making it suitable for both coastal and inland gardens within its native range.
Watch out for
Toyon can take several years to reach productive fruiting, particularly from young nursery stock. Heavy pruning or frequent harvesting of berries will reduce the following year's flowering and berry set, so plan accordingly if using the plant for both ornament and harvest.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California native
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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