This library and any plant lists generated from it reflect plants we’ve carried or could obtain over the past 12–18 months, not our current inventory or availability.
“Fire Wise” plants are not fireproof. These plants, when maintained properly, have a higher fire resistance reducing fire danger. This list is built on the recommendations of local governments and the Diablo Firesafe Council
Leatherleaf Coffeeberry
Rhamnus californica 'Leatherleaf'
Height: 6 feet
Spread: 6 feet
Sunlight:
Hardiness Zone: 7b
Other Names: Frangula californica
Description:
A bushy, compact selection that takes pruning well; ideal for landscape borders, or as a hedge; rich dark green foliage is leathery and glossy; flowers are inconspicuous, but red berries will ripen to black; tough and adaptable
Ornamental Features
Leatherleaf Coffeeberry is primarily grown for its highly ornamental fruit. It features an abundance of magnificent red berries from mid summer to early fall, which fade to black over time. It has attractive dark green evergreen foliage which emerges light green in spring. The glossy oval leaves are highly ornamental and remain dark green throughout the winter.
Landscape Attributes
Leatherleaf Coffeeberry is a multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a mounded form. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.
This shrub will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and can be pruned at anytime. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.
Leatherleaf Coffeeberry is recommended for the following landscape applications;
- Accent
- Hedges/Screening
Planting & Growing
Leatherleaf Coffeeberry will grow to be about 6 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 6 feet. It has a low canopy, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.
This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for xeriscaping or the moisture-conserving landscape. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in sandy soils, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selection of a native North American species, and parts of it are known to be toxic to humans and animals, so care should be exercised in planting it around children and pets.
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