Summer Holly
(Comarostaphylis diversifolia)
Summer Holly (Comarostaphylis diversifolia)
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Photo by Easyscape
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo by Easyscape
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
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http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | CC BY-SA 4.0
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Comarostaphylis diversifolia, commonly known as Summer Holly, is an erect evergreen shrub native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems of Southern California and Baja California, Mexico. This plant is adapted to dry, rocky slopes and canyons, often in the presence of coastal influence. Summer Holly typically grows to a height of over 4 meters (13 feet), with a similar spread, and features distinctive gray, shreddy bark. The tough, leathery leaves are oval, sometimes toothed, and a deep green, providing year-round interest.
The inflorescence consists of racemes of small, urn-shaped flowers that resemble those of manzanitas, blooming in the spring and summer. The flowers are typically white to pink and are followed by bright red, bumpy-skinned drupes that are attractive to birds and other wildlife. Summer Holly is valued for its drought tolerance and is often used in native plant gardens, xeriscaping, and as an ornamental shrub in water-conservative landscapes. It requires minimal maintenance once established and is best suited to full sun or part shade conditions, with well-drained soils. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
The inflorescence consists of racemes of small, urn-shaped flowers that resemble those of manzanitas, blooming in the spring and summer. The flowers are typically white to pink and are followed by bright red, bumpy-skinned drupes that are attractive to birds and other wildlife. Summer Holly is valued for its drought tolerance and is often used in native plant gardens, xeriscaping, and as an ornamental shrub in water-conservative landscapes. It requires minimal maintenance once established and is best suited to full sun or part shade conditions, with well-drained soils. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
- Height: 8-10 feet
- Width: 6-8 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems of Southern California and Baja California, Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Summer-Blooming Manzanita , Summer-Holly , Mock Arbute , California Comarostaphylos
Scientific Names: Comarostaphylis diversifolia , Comarostaphylis diversifolia var. diversifolia
GBIF Accepted Name: Comarostaphylis diversifolia (Parry) Greene