Name:  California Coffeeberry (Rhamnus californica)

Family:  Buckthorn (Rhamnaceae)

Flowering Season:  May and June

Notes:  A native shrub, its ripe black berries can be eaten, but are of questionable flavor and can cause constipation.  Its common name refers to the fact that the seeds resemble coffee beans.  Grows to 12 feet.

 

 

California Coffeeberry (Rhamnus californica) by Gabi McLean

 

California Coffeeberry (Rhamnus californica) by Gabi McLean

 

California Coffeeberry (Rhamnus californica) by Hartmut Wisch