Latin: Arctostaphylos spp.
Plant type: Evergreen perennial
Size: 1-2’
Light: Partial shade
Water: Moderate once established
Family: Saxifragaceae
Zone: 7 - 10
The genus Arctostaphylos includes a wide variety of evergreen, woody plants that range from spreading ground covers to small trees. All bear white to pale-pink, urn-shaped flowers in late winter or spring, are drought tolerant once established, and prefer full sun and well-drained soil. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Many manzanitas have a stunning, sculptural form with bare, rigid branches covered with smooth, rich-colored bark from cinnamon-red to burgundy. Leaf color and size vary among species from small, delicate and dark green to large and silver-grey. The common name, manzanita, refers to the small red or brown berries that emerge in late summer and fall, and provide food to many forms of wildlife. Most manzanitas described below perform well within their native ranges and are difficult to grow at lower elevations.
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