toyon
Heteromeles arbutifolia

Family: Rosaceae.

Type: Evergreen tree.

Branching: Alternate.

Leaves: Leaves are somewhat similar to those of madrone (thus its species name), but narrower and more sharply toothed. Leaves in strong sun can turn a reddish color, due to anthocyanins, to avoid being damaged; this is a common response in drier locations where photosynthesis is limited by available water. New leaves are also commonly red, in this and other plants; this is a protection against herbivory. New leaves are soft and tender, and vulnerable to insect herbivory, but it is the chlorophyll that attracts and nourishes insects, so by avoiding chlorophyll production until leaves are more mature, insects can be discouraged.

Twig: See below; not commented upon.

Fruit & Flower: Fruits change color from yellow to orange to bright red. They are pommes, like apples, with a spongy texture with seeds clustered at the center.

Miscellaneous: The toyon is in the same family as the apple, the rose family. It is found in chaparral woodlands from Baja northwards. It is often confused for holly due to its toothed leaves and bright red berries; the toyon in southern California is, in fact, responsible for the name "Hollywood".