Hollyleaf Cherry
Prunus ilicifolia
Last reviewed: July 2026
Prunus ilicifolia (Hollyleaf Cherry) is a California native evergreen tree that blooms white flowers from March to May. This drought-tolerant species attracts bees and butterflies while thriving in full sun conditions.
Hollyleaf 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.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Hollyleaf Cherry as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
240"–480" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hollyleaf cherry is a large evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy, dark green leaves with spiny edges resembling holly and produces small white flowers in spring followed by red to dark purple cherries. This drought-tolerant plant can be grown as a specimen tree or pruned into a dense hedge or screen.
Growing Hollyleaf Cherry
Grow Hollyleaf Cherry in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 240 to 480 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hollyleaf Cherry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Can grow quite large if not maintained
- Fruit drop may create temporary mess on hardscapes
Wildlife value
Host plant for echo blue butterfly, pale swallowtail butterfly.
Hollyleaf cherry provides excellent habitat value, attracting bees and butterflies with its spring blooms. Birds and small mammals eat the cherry fruits when ripe.
Common questions
- When does Prunus ilicifolia bloom?
- Hollyleaf Cherry blooms from March through May, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Hollyleaf Cherry?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Prunus ilicifolia, drawn to its spring flower clusters.
- Where is Prunus ilicifolia native?
- Hollyleaf Cherry is native to California, where it grows naturally in chaparral and oak woodland habitats.
- How much water does Hollyleaf Cherry need?
- This drought-tolerant native requires low water once established, making it excellent for water-wise landscaping in California.
- Is Hollyleaf Cherry toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Hollyleaf 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 Hollyleaf Cherry toxic to cats?
- Yes. Hollyleaf 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 Hollyleaf Cherry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Hollyleaf Cherry as toxic to livestock.
- Is Hollyleaf Cherry HOA-friendly?
- Hollyleaf 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 Hollyleaf Cherry and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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