Catalina Island Cherry
Prunus lyoniifam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 83F5 — Prunus lyonii
Prunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyoniiPrunus lyonii
IOverview
Overview
The Catalina Island Cherry (Prunus lyonii) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to California and the northwest region of Mexico. It belongs to the Rosaceae family, sharing kinship with cherries, peaches, and almonds. Known for its edible fruit and documented medicinal uses, this plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. Its adaptability makes it suitable for a range of soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). The Catalina Island Cherry grows to a height of 10 meters and is hardy in zones 7-10. One distinctive feature is its ability to produce small, cherry-like fruits that are both edible and used for medicinal purposes.
Quick answers
What is Catalina Island Cherry?
The Catalina Island Cherry (Prunus lyonii) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to California and the northwest region of Mexico. It belongs to the Rosaceae family, sharing kinship with cherries, peaches, and almonds.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Catalina Island Cherry support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Catalina Island Cherry thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 10 meters tall, making it suitable for both trees and shrubs. This plant requires dry to moist conditions and benefits from regular watering during dry spells. Propagate through seeds or by cuttings. Enjoy its edible fruit and seed parts while ensuring the soil pH remains between 7 and 8.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
10.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Catalina Island Cherry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Catalina Island Cherry to enjoy its beauty and fruit.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Catalina Island Cherry sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with a pH of 7–8. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for fruit trees.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings directly into the garden or a large container filled with well-draining soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering during dry periods, and prune in late winter to maintain shape and health.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually in late winter. Harvest fruit when it turns red and is slightly soft to the touch.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The Catalina Island Cherry's fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or dried. The seeds are also usable but should not be consumed raw due to potential toxicity. Typically, the fruit is enjoyed fresh for its sweet taste or dried to preserve it for later use.
Other uses:DyeLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:California, Mexico Northwest
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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