Local Verdict
"California's 'Christmas Berry'. An excellent, dense evergreen screen that feeds flocks of robins and cedar waxwings."
Overview
Toyon is a staple of the chaparral community and arguably one of the most useful landscape shrubs for screening. It grows into a dense, large mound of dark green, serrated leaves that look good year-round.
In summer, it is covered in white flower clusters, which mature into brilliant red berries by December—hence the nickname 'California Holly'. It is highly fire-resistant if kept hydrated and clean.
Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun to Part Shade
Water Needs
Low
Soil Type
Adaptable
Elevation
Up to 4,000 ft
Care Cheat Sheet
- 01.
Hedge It: Can be sheared for a formal hedge, though natural shaping looks best.
- 02.
Bird Watch: Berries ferment slightly in winter, leading to 'drunken' bird antics.
- 03.
Fire Safety: Keep dead wood pruned out to maintain its fire-resistant qualities.
