Spiny Redberry

(Rhamnus crocea)

Spiny Redberry (Rhamnus crocea)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Rhamnus crocea image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Rhamnus crocea, commonly known as Spiny Redberry, is an evergreen shrub native to chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands in California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and Baja California, Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 5 feet (1.5 meters) and a width of 6 feet (1.8 meters), with a dense, rounded form. The plant is characterized by its small, leathery leaves and sharp thorns. During spring and sometimes into winter, it produces inconspicuous white flowers followed by bright red berries that are attractive to birds and other wildlife.

Spiny Redberry is valued for its drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and native plant landscapes. It is often used for erosion control on slopes, as a barrier plant due to its spiny nature, and for habitat restoration projects. This shrub thrives in full sun to part shade and is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to scale insects and fungal diseases in poor conditions. Spiny Redberry is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a reliable plant for various garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Redberry Buckthorn

Scientific Names: Endotropis crocea , Rhamnus insularis

GBIF Accepted Name: Endotropis crocea (Nutt.) Hauenschild