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Description
Arctostaphylos Manzanita, commonly known as Manzanita, is a small tree or shrub native to western North America. It belongs to the Ericaceae family and is known for its unique bark texture, which peels off in thin sheets to reveal a smooth, reddish-brown layer underneath. The plant produces small, urn-shaped flowers in the winter and spring, which give way to round, edible berries that are a food source for many animals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arctostaphylos |
Appearance
Manzanita is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. The plant has a twisted, gnarled trunk and branches that are covered in smooth, reddish-brown bark that peels off in thin sheets. The leaves are small, leathery, and dark green in color, and the plant produces small, urn-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, or red. The flowers give way to round, edible berries that are red, orange, or yellow in color.
Care Guide
Manzanita is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight. The plant is drought-tolerant and requires little water once established. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and poor health. Manzanita is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Manzanita is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, the plant may be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-draining soil. Spider mites and scale insects may also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and stems.
Habitat
Manzanita is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. The plant is adapted to thrive in dry, Mediterranean climates and is often found growing on rocky slopes and hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Manzanita be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Manzanita can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should Manzanita be watered?
A: Manzanita is drought-tolerant and requires little water once established. Water the plant deeply once every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune Manzanita?
A: Manzanita should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune the plant lightly to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Q: Can Manzanita be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Manzanita can be propagated from cuttings taken in late summer or early fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet and place the cuttings in a shaded area until they root.
Related Plants
- Arctostaphylos edmundsii
- Arctostaphylos glauca
- Arctostaphylos manzanita ‘Dr. Hurd’
- Arctostaphylos pajaroensis
References
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. (n.d.). Arctostaphylos manzanita. Retrieved from http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/manzanita.html
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Arctostaphylos manzanita. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282437&isprofile=0&cv=5
- Calflora. (n.d.). Arctostaphylos manzanita. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Arctostaphylos+manzanita
