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Description
Arctostaphylos Auriculata, also known as the Mount Diablo Manzanita, is a species of flowering plant in the heath family, Ericaceae. It is native to the western United States, specifically found in California. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. It has a multi-stemmed and spreading habit, with a dense crown and reddish-brown bark. The leaves are leathery, with a glossy dark green upper surface and a lighter green underside. The flowers are white or pink and bloom in late winter to early spring, followed by small red fruit that attract birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arctostaphylos |
| Species | Arctostaphylos Auriculata |
Appearance
Arctostaphylos Auriculata has a unique and attractive appearance. The plant has a dense and spreading habit, with a reddish-brown bark that peels off in strips. The leaves are leathery, with a glossy dark green upper surface and a lighter green underside. They are about 1-2 inches long and have a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are small and urn-shaped, white or pink, and bloom in clusters in late winter to early spring. The plant produces small red berries that attract birds. Overall, Arctostaphylos Auriculata is a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Arctostaphylos Auriculata is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips:- Water: Water regularly during the first year to establish the plant. After that, it can tolerate some drought but still needs occasional watering during dry periods.- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Arctostaphylos Auriculata is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arctostaphylos Auriculata is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some issues. Here are some common ones to watch out for:- Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant’s roots to rot, leading to wilting and death. To prevent it, plant in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering.- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause dark spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Arctostaphylos Auriculata is native to the western United States, specifically found in California. It grows in chaparral and oak woodland habitats, often on slopes or ridges. The plant is drought-tolerant and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
1. Is Arctostaphylos Auriculata a good plant for wildlife?
Yes, Arctostaphylos Auriculata produces small red berries that attract birds.
2. Can Arctostaphylos Auriculata tolerate drought?
Yes, Arctostaphylos Auriculata is drought-tolerant but still needs occasional watering during dry periods.
3. What is the best time to fertilize Arctostaphylos Auriculata?
The best time to fertilize is in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
4. What is the hardiness zone for Arctostaphylos Auriculata?
Arctostaphylos Auriculata is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Arctostaphylos Auriculata:- Arctostaphylos edmundsii- Arctostaphylos glauca- Arctostaphylos manzanita- Arctostaphylos pajaroensis- Arctostaphylos tomentosa
References
– “Arctostaphylos auriculata.” Plant of the Week. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ARAU.- “Arctostaphylos auriculata.” Calflora. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=602.- “Arctostaphylos auriculata.” UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021. https://ccmg.ucanr.edu/Plant_of_the_Month/Arctostaphylos_auriculata/.
