Characteristics

Heteromeles arbustifolia is an evergreen California native whose range does not naturally extend much further than the state borders (with the exception of northwestern Mexico). Leaves range from 6-15 cm, with acute to acuminate tip, oblique base and dentate margins. The petiole is short, about 2-4 cm, and with midvein becomes reddish as the leaf matures. H. arbustifolia is drought-tolerant and is very popular in xeriscaping.

Hidden Traits/Uses:

The flowers and berries of the plant are a rich food source for native wildlife, including birds, insects, squirrels and even coyotes. Native American tribes in the California region used the leaves in a tea as a digestive aid, and the berries were both eaten fresh, made into a beverage or dried and stored.