Heteromeles arbutifolia (Lindl.) M. Roemer: Christmasberry

The genus Heteromeles has only a single species - H. arbutifolia (Lindl.) M. Roemer, also known as H. salicifolia (K. Presl.) Abrams (Phipps 1992). It is closely related to the large tropical genus Photinia Lindl., to which it has sometimes been referred. Christmasberry, also known as toyon, California holly, and hollywood, is a long-lived shrub or small tree, 2 to 10 m in height, that sprouts freely after fire from a subterranean burl. It has shiny, leathery, evergreen leaves that are sharply toothed along the margins. A common constituent of chaparral vegetation throughout California and Baja California, it is usually found on less harsh, more mesic microsites. Christmasberry is useful for erosion control, is a source of honey, and has leaves and fruits that provide food for wildlife. It has also been widely planted in California as an ornamental for park, freeway, and home landscape use (Magill 1974). The attractive foliage and fruits are cut and used for their decorative value.