Arctostaphylos Pacifica, commonly known as Pacific Manzanita, is a species of evergreen shrub that is native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon in the United States. This plant belongs to the Ericaceae family, which also includes blueberries, cranberries, and rhododendrons. Pacific Manzanita is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Arctostaphylos |
Appearance
Pacific Manzanita is a dense, evergreen shrub that can reach a height of 8-10 feet and a spread of 6-8 feet. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and glossy with a dark green color. The bark is reddish-brown and peels off in strips, revealing a smooth, reddish-brown trunk underneath. The flowers are urn-shaped and pinkish-white, blooming in late winter to early spring. The fruit is a small, red berry that is edible but not commonly used for human consumption.
Care Guide
To care for Pacific Manzanita, it is important to provide well-draining soil and regular watering during the growing season. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. Fertilizer is not necessary but can be applied in small amounts in the spring. Pruning is not required but can be done to maintain the desired shape and size.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pacific Manzanita is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases in poorly drained soil. Spider mites and scale insects can also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and branches. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap can help prevent infestations.
Habitat
Pacific Manzanita is commonly found in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodlands in California and Oregon. It is an important plant in these ecosystems, providing food and habitat for wildlife such as birds and mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pacific Manzanita deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Pacific Manzanita is considered deer-resistant due to its tough leaves and unpalatable fruit.
Q: Can Pacific Manzanita be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pacific Manzanita can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: Can Pacific Manzanita tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, Pacific Manzanita is tolerant of salt spray and can be grown in coastal gardens.
Q: Is Pacific Manzanita a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Pacific Manzanita is a good plant for erosion control due to its extensive root system and ability to tolerate a range of soil types.
Related Plants
- Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry)
- Arctostaphylos hookeri (Hooker’s Manzanita)
- Arctostaphylos patula (Greenleaf Manzanita)
References
- Arctostaphylos pacifica. (n.d.). Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/arcpac/all.html
- Pacific Manzanita. (n.d.). Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=572
- Arctostaphylos pacifica. (n.d.). Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://ucanr.edu/sites/UrbanHort/Woody_Plants/Shrubs/Arctostaphylos_pacifica/
