Catalina Cherry Tree, Prunus illicifolia
Like many California native trees, the Catalina Cherry is, hardy, extremely drought tolerant, and provides great habitat. At a typical 20’ in height at maturity, it makes a great evergreen shade tree for backyard patios.
Which native trees have similar characteristics to the Catalina Cherry? and how much water do they need with full sun exposure?
Paul, director of horticulture and exhibits says:
1st answer:
Prunus caroliniana (Carolina Cherry) Native to Southeastern United States from Carolina to Florida
Prunus ilicifolia (Hollyleaf Cherry) Native to the California coast and northern Baja California
2nd answer:
How much water a plant needs question. If I answer that one, the visitor just follows a regiment instead of monitoring the soil moisture and plant growth… This question always refers to many elements, starting with soil type. (Sand, silt, and clay make up the basic 3 elements of soil). Next element is weather because plants need more water in summer, etc.
All nursery-grown plants require regular water until established, then taper off to drought tolerance through one or two summers. (You will know because the plants start growing well)
For shrubs and trees (not bedding plants) saturate the soil larger than the root zone perhaps every week or every two weeks when young… (think about the nursery plants that you purchased your plants from getting watered almost every day. Now they are in your new dry soil…)
Hope that helps, Paul