J20170420-0091—Rhus ovata—RPBG (33433986203)

Description:

Rhus ovata—sugar bush. The shrub is a denizen of southern California at altitudes of less than 4500 feet and away from the ocean. The spray of white flowers 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. It is showy from the time red buds form through flowering and berries. The plant photographed is at Regional Parks Botanic Garden located in Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley, CA.