2014-12-23-14.58.20 ZS PMax Rhus ovata-1

Rhus ovata—sugar bush. Buds are pictured. The shrub is a denizen of southern California at altitudes of less than 4500 feet and away from the ocean. These will be followed by a spray of tiny white flowers that will develop into red berries late in summer, These berries provided an important source of sweetener for local Native Americans. The species makes a fine specimen that is drought tolerant. The plant photographed is at Regional Parks Botanic Garden located in Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley, CA.

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