Prunus ilicifolia - Holly-Leafed Cherry

Description

This plant is the reigning champion in my garden when it comes to attracting native bees! A dense, evergreen, uniformly branched shrub that usually reaches 8' high but can reach up to 25'. Hollyleaf cherry will become dense in full sun or will develop into a more loosely branched shrub in shade. It is water or drought tolerant once established. It can be used as a hedge or tall screen if kept clipped back. A versatile and easy to grow plant, this cherry also provides fruit for many types of birds. It occurs in the coastal ranges from Napa to southern California- very common in Bay Area chaparral and oak woodlands.