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Description
Arctostaphylos Columbiana, commonly known as Hairy Manzanita, is a plant species that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, particularly in the states of Oregon and Washington. This species is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6 meters in height, with a trunk that can reach up to 25 centimeters in diameter. Its leaves are oval-shaped and hairy, with a length of 2-5 centimeters and a width of 1-3 centimeters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arctostaphylos |
Appearance
The Hairy Manzanita has a unique appearance, with its hairy leaves and reddish-brown bark that peels off in thin strips. Its flowers are urn-shaped and white or pink, with a length of 5-7 millimeters. The fruit is a small, round berry that is red or yellow, with a diameter of 6-10 millimeters. This plant species blooms from January to April, and its fruit is ripe from July to September.
Care Guide
The Hairy Manzanita is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and requires little to moderate watering. It can tolerate full sunlight to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 7-9. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be beneficial in the spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hairy Manzanita is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. It can also be affected by fungal infections such as powdery mildew and canker. Regular pruning can help prevent these issues and promote healthy growth.
Habitat
The Hairy Manzanita is commonly found in the Pacific Northwest region of North America, particularly in dry, rocky areas such as mountainsides and ridges. It can also be found in forests and meadows at elevations of up to 2,000 meters. This species is important to the ecosystem as it provides food and habitat for birds and small mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Hairy Manzanita be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its roots.
Q: Is the Hairy Manzanita poisonous?
A: No, it is not poisonous and is safe for humans and animals to consume.
Q: How often should I prune the Hairy Manzanita?
A: Pruning can be done annually in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Q: What is the significance of the Hairy Manzanita in indigenous culture?
A: The indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest have used the leaves and berries of the Hairy Manzanita for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Related Plants
- Arctostaphylos bakeri
- Arctostaphylos densiflora
- Arctostaphylos edmundsii
- Arctostaphylos manzanita
References
- “Arctostaphylos columbiana.” Pacific Northwest Plant Database, University of Washington, https://depts.washington.edu/propplnt/Plants/Arctostaphylos%20columbiana.htm.
- “Arctostaphylos columbiana.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ARCO9.
- “Hairy Manzanita.” Oregon State University, https://oregonstate.edu/dept/ldplants/arcmanz.htm.
