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Hollyleaf Cherry
Prunus ilicifolia ssp illcifolia
In stock
1 gallon; 5 gallon
Plant Care
Native region:
Mojave Desert
Water needs:
Low
Exposure:
Mature size:
Growth rate:
Full Sun; Filtered Sun
5-40'x5-20'
Moderate
Flower color:
Flower season:
Pruning:
Cream; White; Purple
Winter; Spring
Can be pruned into a standard tree or sheared into a hedge. Prune in late fall after the fruit is gone.
Wildlife
Monarchs:
No
Nectar pollinators:
No
Nighttime pollinators:
No
Rabbit resistant:
No
The hollyleaf cherry is the most widely distributed subspecies of native holly in California. It thrives in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and southern oak woodland habitats, and its size can vary greatly based on growing conditions. In dry, rocky, or shallow soils, it remains bush-like, reaching 5 to 15 feet tall. In richer soils with more moisture, it can grow into a large shrub or small tree, up to 30-40 feet. Its evergreen leaves resemble holly, and in the spring, it produces large clusters of softly fragrant, cream-colored flowers. The abundant fruit attracts birds and other wildlife each year.
Hollyleaf cherry is ideal for erosion control on slopes, habitat restoration, and as background shrubs in ornamental gardens. It also works well as a medium to large clipped hedge, maintaining a neat appearance when pruned. This hardy plant is well-suited to heat, full sun, and low levels of summer moisture.
Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information
The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!
Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.
Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.