Catalina Ironwood

Lyonothamnus floribundus

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Rosaceae
Genus:
Lyonothamnus
Species:
Lyonothamnus floribundus
USDA Symbol:
LYFL2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Tree
Height:
1500 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
may,jun
Bloom Colors:
white

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Caterpillars:
★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Ypsolopha lyonothamnae

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fragrant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Resprouts from root crown after fire; seeds may also germinate in post-fire conditions.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, rocky or sandy soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to Channel Islands, prefers coastal conditions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
30–90 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 30-60 days to break dormancy; sow in well-drained medium.