Name: Fernleaf Catalina Ironwood
Rating: 5.00 (2 reviews)

1/6

Fernleaf Catalina Ironwood

Lyonothamnus floribundus ssp. aspleniifolius

A rare, fast-growing California native tree with unique fern-like foliage, peeling red-brown bark, and clusters of white spring flowers.

$189.99

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Description

Lyonothamnus floribundus ssp. aspleniifolius, commonly known as Fernleaf Catalina Ironwood or Santa Cruz Island Ironwood, is a rare, fast-growing evergreen tree native to California's Channel Islands, prized for its unique fern-like foliage, striking peeling red-brown bark, and graceful, upright form. This endemic species features large, palmately compound leaves with deeply lobed, fern-like leaflets that resemble those of a tropical fern or even the leaves of the cannabis plant, creating a lush, textural canopy. In late spring to early summer, it produces dense, terminal clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers that cover the tree like snow, attracting bees and other pollinators, though some find the scent slightly unpleasant . The tree develops a tall, slender, columnar to pyramidal crown with age, and its bark peels in long, vertical strips, revealing a rich, reddish-brown underlayer that adds significant winter interest . Highly drought-tolerant and adaptable to coastal conditions, it is an outstanding choice for large landscapes, Mediterranean gardens, coastal plantings, dry slopes, and as a striking specimen tree.

Quick Facts

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Light: Full sun to partial shade

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Foliage & Flowers: Large, palmately compound leaves (6-10 inches long) with 5-9 deeply lobed, fern-like, dark green leaflets; dense, terminal clusters (panicles) of small, white, fragrant flowers in late spring to early summer; small, inconspicuous brown capsules .
Mature Height: 18-50 ft (typically 30-40 ft)
Mature Spread: 15-25 ft
Growth Rate: Fast
Hardiness Zones: USDA 8-10 ; Sunset 14-17, 19-24
Core Benefits: Unique fern-like foliage, attractive red-brown peeling bark, fast-growing, highly drought tolerant, coastal tolerant, rare California native.
Best Uses: Specimen tree, large landscapes, Mediterranean gardens, coastal plantings, dry slopes, woodland gardens, native plant gardens, privacy screening.

Faqs

Q: How large does Fernleaf Catalina Ironwood get?
A: It is a tall, slender tree, typically reaching 18-50 feet (30-40 ft on average) in height and 15-25 feet in spread at maturity. Its growth rate is fast, especially when young.

Q: How much sun does it need?
A: It performs best in full sun but will tolerate light partial shade. For the densest growth and best flowering, plant in full sun.

Q: How much water does it need?
A: Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant. Water regularly during its first year to establish a deep root system. After that, it requires little to no supplemental water, making it perfect for water-wise landscapes and dry slopes.

Q: Does the flower scent have any issue?
A: The small, white flowers are fragrant, but some people find the scent slightly unpleasant or musty. However, the odor is not strong and is rarely noticeable or a concern unless standing directly under the tree during peak bloom. The tree's foliage and bark are its primary ornamental features.

Q: Is it a good choice for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, as a native of the Channel Islands, it is well-adapted to coastal conditions, tolerating salt spray and wind once established. It is an excellent choice for coastal Mediterranean climates.

📍 Primary Delivery Area · San Francisco Bay Area

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San Francisco Bay Area is our primary local delivery market. Victory Nursery also serves additional California markets and selected extended delivery areas by arrangement.

Regular local delivery: San Francisco, Peninsula, South Bay, East Bay, Marin, Tracy / Mountain House and surrounding service areas.

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