Native California Flowering Evergreen Shrubs

Identification

• Native, evergreen, flowering shrubs of California include common manzanita (Arctostaphylos manzanita), toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) and narrow-leaved goldenbush (Ericameria linearifolia).

Description

• Narrow-leaved goldenbush is low-growing shrub with a mature height of about 3 feet and a rounded form. The foliage is glossy and fragrant. and the yellow, Marguerite-like flowers bloom in the middle of spring. Common manzanita grows to a full height of about 15 feet and responds well to pruning. The bark is reddish-purple in color, and the oval foliage is gray green. The shrub blooms with clusters of fragrant white or pale pink flowers during winter. Toyon also is a large shrub or tree that can well exceed 50 feet, unless kept to size with pruning. The holly-like foliage is leathery and the bark is brown to gray. Toyon blooms with rose-like, pyramidal clusters of white flowers during summer.

Native Range

• Narrow-leaves goldenbush is a native of the dry inner foothills and mountains of California. The shrub is not easy to find in local garden centers, however. Common manzanita grows extensively in the inner coastal ranges of the state and is a long lived plant. Toyon grows naturally in the central and southern regions of California. The edible fruit of the shrub attracts a wide variety of birds.

Growth Requirements

• Plant the narrow-leaved goldenbush in well-drained soil for best growth. The shrub is easily propagated with seed. Toyon grows well in any well-drained soil. Avoid planting in heavy clay soil and avoid excessive use of fertilizers, as these can shorten the life of the plant. Irrigate deeply every two to four weeks. Common manzanita also grows best in well-drained, dry soil and in areas of full sun.