LYONOTHAMNUS floribundus ssp. asplenifolius. Catalina ironwood. Native to the Channel Islands off our southern coast, this is a most unusual tree. It is generally taller than broad, with erect cinnamon-colored trunks and shreddy bark. The younger branches carry sprays of divided and dissected 6" leaves, dark green above and pale beneath. Broad clusters of cream-colored flowers decorate the tree in early summer, developing into brown seed capsules which persist for several months. It grows best near the coast. Sun or light shade, well drained soil, occasional to no supplemental watering when established. Established trees are hardy to around 15oF.