One of the staples in the California native plant lineup.  Toyon, botanically known as Heteromeles arbutifolia, is unmistakable with its prolific red berries it produces which appear in Fall and last through much of the Winter season.  Other common names it can go by include Christmas Berry and California Holly.  Fun fact.. Hollywood get's its name from this plant! Toyon is primarily part of the Coast Sage Scrub plant community, but can be found in all along the foothills of the Sierras.  Heteromeles is most often seen about 10 feet tall max, however in optimal conditions in its native habitat can reach 20 to 30 feet tall.  The foliage is evergreen with narrow 2 inch leaves.  It's branching structure is upright, but can take on a weeping affect as the weight of the berry clusters can pull the more tender part of the branches down a bit.  They can take full sun or part shade.  Give Toyon part shade in hotter climates.  Generally, these plants are very easy to grow and can tolerate a variety of soil types.  They do well on slopes and help to stabilize soil.  Use Toyon as a small single specimen accent tree or in a line to form a hedge.  Native to California.  Note that berries contain toxins and can be harmful if ingested raw.  USDA Zones 8-10.

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Foliage: Evergreen

Sun Exposure: Sun Or Part Shade

Water Needs: Low, Moderate

Bloom Season: Summer

Mature Height: 9-11'

Mature Width: 11-15'

Form: Upright And Rounded

Usda Zones: 8-10

Attributes: Drought Tolerant, Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant, Woodland Garden, Seacoast Tolerant, Hedge Plants, Fire Resistant, Hummingbirds, Erosion Control, Zen Garden

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