Hollyleaf Cherry
Prunus ilicifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Hollyleaf Cherry is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (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
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.
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, backyard only.
- 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.
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.