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Description
Arctostaphylos Imbricata, commonly known as the ‘Bracted Manzanita,’ is a small evergreen shrub that is native to California and Oregon. This plant is a member of the Ericaceae family and is typically found in dry, rocky areas. The Bracted Manzanita typically grows to a height of 6-12 feet and has a spreading habit. It has a unique appearance, with its red bark peeling away to reveal a smooth, glossy surface and long, tapering, green leaves that are arranged in an imbricate pattern. This plant blooms in the winter and early spring, producing small, white or pinkish flowers that are urn-shaped and arranged in clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arctostaphylos |
Appearance
The Bracted Manzanita has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plants. It has a thick, red bark that peels away to reveal a smooth, glossy surface. The leaves of this plant are long, tapering, and arranged in an imbricate pattern, meaning they overlap like shingles on a roof. The leaves are typically green and have a waxy coating that helps them retain moisture. The Bracted Manzanita blooms in the winter and early spring, producing small, white or pinkish flowers that are urn-shaped and arranged in clusters. The flowers give way to small, red berries that are a favorite of birds and other wildlife.
Care Guide
The Bracted Manzanita is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:- Water: The Bracted Manzanita is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. Water deeply once a week during the first year after planting, and then reduce watering to once a month.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization. However, if you want to give it a boost, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: The Bracted Manzanita prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The Bracted Manzanita is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Bracted Manzanita is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some issues to be aware of:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can develop in humid conditions and cause a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves of the Bracted Manzanita and cause them to turn yellow and fall off. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Bracted Manzanita is native to California and Oregon and is typically found in dry, rocky areas. This plant is well-adapted to hot, arid climates and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It is often used in landscaping projects because of its unique appearance and low-maintenance requirements.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Bracted Manzanita be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Bracted Manzanita can be grown in containers. However, it may not reach its full potential size and will require more frequent watering than if grown in the ground.
Q: Is the Bracted Manzanita deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the Bracted Manzanita is generally deer-resistant because of its tough, leathery leaves and unpalatable berries.
Q: How often should I prune my Bracted Manzanita?
A: The Bracted Manzanita does not require much pruning. However, if you want to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged branches, prune it in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Is the Bracted Manzanita toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that the Bracted Manzanita is toxic to pets. However, it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants to prevent accidental ingestion.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Bracted Manzanita:- Arctostaphylos hookeri ‘Monterey Carpet’- Arctostaphylos manzanita ‘Dr. Hurd’- Arctostaphylos ‘Emerald Carpet’- Arctostaphylos pungens ‘Warren Roberts’- Arctostaphylos uva-ursi ‘Massachusetts’
References
– “Arctostaphylos imbricata” (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center)- “Arctostaphylos imbricata” (UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden)- “Bracted Manzanita (Arctostaphylos imbricata)” (Oregon State University Extension Service)
