Rhamnus ilicifolia

An evergreen shrub with small, dark green, leathery, serrated leaves that grows to 6-10’H x 10’W with a somewhat open, upright habit. Native to the foothills and mountains of southern and central California, the Sierras and west of the Sacramento Valley up to 3,500 feet. Male and female plants are separate, producing inconspicuous yellow-cream flowers from spring into early summer. Female plants produce sporadic, gelatinous red fruits. Prefers a bit of relief from the afternoon sun in inland sites and decent drainage. Larval host for the pale swallowtail butterfly.

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