California Coastal Commission, Public Education Program, Upper Newport Bay Plants

Lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia)

Plant: This evergreen shrub is 3 to 10 feet high and is frost resistant.
Flowers: The small flowers, only 1/8 inch long with 5 white to rose petals, are in compact, terminally branched clusters.
Fruit: The flattened, reddish fruits are covered with sticky bumps and short hairs. A cooling but rather bitter drink can be made from the fruits.
Leaf: The flat, leathery leaves, 1 to 2 inches long, are rounded on both ends and aromatic when crushed.