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Description
Arctostaphylos Catalinae, commonly known as Santa Catalina Island Manzanita, is a flowering shrub that is native to Santa Catalina Island in California. This plant is a member of the heath family, Ericaceae, and is known for its unique bark and attractive flowers. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide, and has a dense, bushy habit. The leaves are small and dark green, and the flowers are pink or white and bloom in the winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya || Kingdom | Plantae || Phylum | Tracheophyta || Class | Magnoliopsida || Order | Ericales || Family | Ericaceae || Genus | Arctostaphylos || Species | A. catalinae |
Appearance
Arctostaphylos Catalinae is a large, evergreen shrub with a dense, bushy habit. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide, and has a unique bark that peels off in thin, papery strips. The leaves are small, glossy, and dark green, and the flowers are pink or white and bloom in the winter. The fruit is a small, red berry that is edible but not commonly consumed.
Care Guide
Arctostaphylos Catalinae is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Santa Catalina Island Manzanita prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring if desired.- Soil: Arctostaphylos Catalinae prefers well-draining, acidic soil. If your soil is heavy or compacted, amend it with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: Arctostaphylos Catalinae is hardy to USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arctostaphylos Catalinae is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out slightly between waterings.- Spider Mites: Spider mites can be a problem in hot, dry weather. To control spider mites, rinse the plant with a strong stream of water or apply an insecticidal soap.- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Arctostaphylos Catalinae is native to Santa Catalina Island in California, where it grows in chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats. It prefers well-draining soil and is adapted to hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This plant is also found in cultivation in other regions with similar climates, such as southern California and the Mediterranean.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Arctostaphylos Catalinae be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Santa Catalina Island Manzanita attract wildlife?
A: Yes, this plant is attractive to bees and butterflies when it is in bloom, and the fruit is eaten by birds and other wildlife.
Q: Does Arctostaphylos Catalinae require pruning?
A: This plant does not require pruning, but you can prune it in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can this plant tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, this plant is tolerant of salt spray and is a good choice for coastal gardens.
Related Plants
– Arctostaphylos edmundsii- Arctostaphylos glauca- Arctostaphylos hookeri- Arctostaphylos manzanita- Arctostaphylos stanfordiana
References
– “Arctostaphylos catalinae.” Calflora. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Arctostaphylos+catalinae- “Arctostaphylos catalinae.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/770–arctostaphylos-catalinae- “Santa Catalina Island Manzanita.” San Marcos Growers. Retrieved from https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2905
