Species of the Week

Hollyleaf Cherry (Prunus ilicifolia) 🍒🌳

The Hollyleaf Cherry is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to coastal California and northern Baja California. Its dark, waxy leaves persist through most of the year, giving way to  a cluster of small white blossoms each spring. By summer, those flowers develop into round, marble-sized fruits that ripen from red to a deep black. The fruit, commonly known as “islay,” was one of the most important food sources for California’s native peoples, second only to acorns significance. While the seed kernel contains hydrocyanic acid, toxic to humans and most animals, Native Californians developed careful processing techniques to make it safe and nourishing. Ground into flour or porridge, or shaped into cakes and balls to accompany meat, islay was a dietary staple and a culinary art form. Preparing it was considered a delicacy, reserved for ceremonial offerings and as a welcoming gift for visitors.