Hollyleaf Cherry, Prunus ilicifolia
is an
evergreen shrub to tree, average 14 ft. high and has clusters
of white flowers in spikes in March that cover the entire plant, and in
the fall is very showy, covered with large red cherries. The leaves are
holly-like, hence the name Holly-Leafed Cherry. Native to the
California coast ranges from Mexico north to above San Francisco Bay.
Prunus ilicifolia likes full sun, has low water requirements after
established, and needs good drainage. The cherries are edible but are
mostly skin and seed. Birds love the fruit. When young, this species is
killed at 20 degrees F., but after the first year will survive 0
degrees F. or lower. Excellent foundation plant and/or privacy hedge.
Synonym: Prunus ilicifolia ssp. ilicifolia. Good companion plants are
Mountain Mahogany, Toyon and Sugar Bush. Prunus ilicifolia tolerates
shearing, for a formal hedge.
Hollyleaf Cherry, Prunus ilicifolia is too slow to be a hedge by
itself, mix with faster species and let it grow in.
Prunus ilicifolia is great for a bird garden.
Foliage of Prunus ilicifolia has color green and is evergreen.
Flower of Prunus ilicifolia has color white.
Fruit of Prunus ilicifolia is edible.
Communities for Prunus ilicifolia:Chaparral, Coastal Sage Scrub and Central Oak Woodland.