Science · Plants, Natives & Crops
Hollyleaf Cherry
California native cherry with leathery leaves and wildlife fruit; hollyleaf form differs from the smoother-leaved Catalina cherry subspecies.
Prunus ilicifolia · Evergreen shrub or small tree
Profile
- Light
- Sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Dense screen or small tree; mature size varies by subspecies
- Fruit
- Birds eat cherries; pits and wilted foliage are unsafe to ingest
- Pruning
- Light shaping after flowering; avoid repeated severe shearing
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; depends on soil texture
- Salinity tolerance
- Not reliably characterized for this catalog label; avoid saline irrigation and diagnose with soil/water testing.
- Drought tolerance
- High after establishment.
Optimal root measurement depth
6–12 in
Typical active root zone for established native shrubs and vines. Typical guidance; confirm with a soil probe on site.
Use deep spaced irrigation for young plants; allow drying between waterings and keep trunk base dry.
Problems to watch
- Root rot
- Scale insects
- Shot-hole leaf disease
Stress signs
- Gumming or cankers on stems
- Shot-like holes with discolored margins
- Persistent wilt with damp roots
Where you'll find it
- Evergreen native screening
- Bird habitat
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All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.