Toyon is an exceptionally attractive, holly-like evergreen shrub that grows in the foothills and woodlands of western and central California. Also known as Christmas Berry, the shrubs bear alternate leaves that are leathery, toothed, and up to 4 inches long. Flat-topped clusters composed of many small white flowers are borne on the branch tips. The round, red fruits measure about .25-inch in diameter and are very showy. The shrubs may reach 15 feet in height in their native habitat but more typically are 6 to 8 feet tall.
Widely distributed in central to southern California in habitats ranging from chaparral to woodlands, these bushes are grown from fruits collected in the foothills near Redding, California in 2007. They are cold-tolerant and long-lived and can produce seed at an age as little as two years.
Size: Gallon
Family: Rosaceae
Scientific Name: Heteromeles arbutifolia
