San Bruno Coffeeberry
Rhamnus californica 'Mound San Bruno'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48 inches
Width
84 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Low once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
California
Toxicity
Berries are mildly toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Frangula californica (syn. Rhamnus californica), or California coffeeberry, is a versatile evergreen shrub native to the western US, valued for its adaptability and wildlife-friendly berries. Notable for its dense, mound-shaped form and resilience in drought conditions.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mist cuttings to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are strong enough, typically after 1 year.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove dead wood.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to maintain shape and health
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter ❌
- Do not neglect pest monitoring
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soils ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
San Bruno Coffeeberry questions
What zones can San Bruno Coffeeberry grow in?
San Bruno Coffeeberry is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is San Bruno Coffeeberry deer resistant?
Yes — San Bruno Coffeeberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does San Bruno Coffeeberry bloom?
San Bruno Coffeeberry typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does San Bruno Coffeeberry need full sun?
San Bruno Coffeeberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is San Bruno Coffeeberry drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), San Bruno Coffeeberry handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Rhamnus to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow San Bruno Coffeeberry with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
