About

Cneoridium is a monotypic genus in the citrus family which contains the single species Cneoridium dumosum, commonly known as bushrue or coast spice bush. As a perennial, evergreen shrub, Cneoridium is native to the coast of southern California and Baja California, thriving in hot, dry conditions. This plant is characterized by a distinctive citrusy aroma and small, white flowers that appear from winter to spring. The flowers eventually become round berries that resemble a miniature version of the common citrus.

Widely known and utilized by the indigenous peoples of the Americas for centuries, this species was first discovered and introduced to Western science by Thomas Nuttall, on his trip to San Diego. Today, this species is listed as imperiled, as some of its habitats are threatened by coastal development, urbanization, military operations and fire suppression.

Where it grows

This species is distributed within the states of California in the United States and Baja California in Mexico. In California, this species occurs on the southern coast in San Diego and Orange counties, and on San Clemente Island. In Baja California, this species is found throughout the northwestern portion of the state south to the central desert. It also has a disjunct distribution in the Sierra de San Borja near Bahia de Los Angeles in southern Baja California.