Prunus ilicifolia

$10.90$30.25

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Hollyleaf cherry

This evergreen shrub/tree is slow to establish at first, but after reaching maturity it grows more rapidly to 10-25′ tall & 15′ wide. Space 10-12′ apart.

Thrives in full sun and has low water requirements. The cherries are edible but have very little flesh. Provides food for many birds.

It has holly-like leaves and clusters of white flower spikes that cover the entire plant in March.

Showy and easily grown from seed, Holly-Leafed Cherry is prized for cultivation. It has been cultivated for hundreds of years as a food source. Tolerates twice-yearly pruning when used as a hedge.

Lifeform: Shrub, Tree

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade

Water: Dry, Light, Moderate

Soil: Clay, Loam, Rocky, Sand

Other: Attracts Bees, Attracts Birds, Attracts Butterflies, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control

 

Container

2-Gal, 2-Gal-O, 4-Gal, D-40-O, D-40, D-40S, TP4

Ecological Value

The flowers attract bees and butterflies while the cherries are a favorite of many birds.

Historical Uses

The seed was collected, ground, and leached to be made into flour. The wood is heavy and fine grained much like the more commonly used cherry wood. Native Americans fermented the fruit into a drink us

Distribution

Native to California and is found only slightly beyond California borders.

Elevation

Between 0 and 5249 feet

Communities
Habitat

Found on dry slopes and fans