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Description
Arctostaphylos Pechoensis, commonly known as the Pecho manzanita, is a species of evergreen shrub native to California, specifically the Central Coast in San Luis Obispo County. It belongs to the Ericaceae family and is a popular landscaping plant due to its ornamental qualities.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota || Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Ericales || Family| Ericaceae || Genus| Arctostaphylos || Species| Arctostaphylos Pechoensis |
Appearance
The Pecho manzanita grows up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. It has a compact and dense growth habit, with a spreading canopy of glossy, dark green leaves. The bark is reddish-brown and peeling, revealing a smooth, cinnamon-colored surface underneath. The plant produces small, pinkish-white flowers in the spring, followed by red berries that last through the summer and fall.
Care Guide
To care for the Pecho manzanita, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during hot, dry periods. Fertilize it in the spring with a low-nitrogen fertilizer. The Pecho manzanita thrives in hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pecho manzanita is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil. Overwatering can also lead to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. To prevent issues, ensure proper drainage and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
The Pecho manzanita is native to the Central Coast of California, specifically in San Luis Obispo County. It grows in chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats, where it thrives in well-draining soils and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Pecho manzanita?
A: The Pecho manzanita is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during hot, dry periods. Water it deeply every 2-3 weeks during the summer months.
Q: Can I grow the Pecho manzanita in a container?
A: Yes, the Pecho manzanita can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives full sun exposure.
Q: When should I prune my Pecho manzanita?
A: Prune the Pecho manzanita in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased wood and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Can I propagate the Pecho manzanita from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Pecho manzanita can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until new growth appears.
Related Plants
– Arctostaphylos Edithae- Arctostaphylos Glauca- Arctostaphylos Manzanita- Arctostaphylos Rudis
References
– California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Arctostaphylos pechoensis. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Arctostaphylos-pechoensis-()- Las Pilitas Nursery. (n.d.). Arctostaphylos pechoensis. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/956–arctostaphylos-pechoensis
