Toyon is a tough, evergreen shrub native to California. It has glossy, toothed green leaves and clusters of small white flowers in early summer. In fall and winter it produces bright red berries that are very noticeable. It grows well in both sun and partial shade and has a loose, rounded form. Toyon adds bright color in the winter months when many plants are bare.
Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia)
•Provides food for birds and mammals: the red berries persist into winter and are eaten by birds like cedar waxwings, robins, and mockingbirds, and animals like coyotes. 
•Good habitat plant: flowers attract pollinators (bees, butterflies), and the shrub gives shelter and cover. 
•Excellent for erosion control and slope stabilization due to its wide, spreading root system and ability to handle dry, steep terrain.