Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Rhamnaceae

Genus:

Frangula

Species:

Frangula californica

USDA Symbol:

FRCA12

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

400 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun

Bloom Colors:

greenish-white

Evergreen Shrub:

Yes

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★★★☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★★★☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Reported Fauna Sightings

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, butterflies, small mammals

Fall Color:

red, yellow

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts from root crown after fire; seeds may be stimulated by heat.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, rocky or sandy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

adapted to chaparral and woodland habitats

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days

Germination Time:

30–90 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 60-90 days to break dormancy.