Catalina Cherry
Prunus lyonii
Last reviewed: July 2026
Prunus lyonii (Catalina Cherry) is a native California evergreen tree that blooms white flowers from March to May. This drought-tolerant species attracts bees and butterflies while thriving in full sun conditions.
Catalina Cherry is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
180"–360" H × 180"–360" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Catalina cherry is an attractive evergreen tree featuring glossy green leaves and clusters of small white flowers in spring, followed by dark purple fruits. This drought-tolerant tree grows relatively quickly to 15-30 feet tall and wide.
Growing Catalina Cherry
Grow Catalina Cherry in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 180 to 360 inches tall and spread 180 to 360 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Catalina Cherry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Fruit drop may create temporary mess on hardscapes
- May need strategic pruning to maintain formal appearance
Wildlife value
Catalina cherry provides significant habitat value with flowers that attract bees and butterflies in spring. Birds are drawn to the cherry fruits that develop later in the season.
Common questions
- When does Prunus lyonii bloom?
- Catalina Cherry blooms from March through May, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Catalina Cherry?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Prunus lyonii, drawn to its spring flower clusters.
- Where is Prunus lyonii native?
- Catalina Cherry is native to California, particularly the Channel Islands and coastal regions of Southern California.
- How much water does Catalina Cherry need?
- This drought-tolerant native tree requires low water once established, making it suitable for water-wise landscaping in Mediterranean climates.
- Is Catalina Cherry toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Catalina Cherry is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Catalina Cherry toxic to cats?
- Yes. Catalina Cherry is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Catalina Cherry HOA-friendly?
- Catalina Cherry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Catalina Cherry and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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