Manzanita
arctostaphylos manzanita
Also known as: ["Bearberry","Wineberry"]
Overview
A evergreen shrub native to western North America, known for its smooth, red bark and small, bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Arctostaphylos |
| Botanical Name: | Arctostaphylos manzanita |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or slope in coastal or Mediterranean climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining. Poor drainage can lead to root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic soil with organic matter. Cactus or succulent mix amended with sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure protection from extreme conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor for sunburn; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–14 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, 5.5–6.5.
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; use acidic amendments if needed.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, 50–75°F (10–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but is sensitive to extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer during active growth
Fertilize sparingly, as manzanita is not heavy feeder; apply before new growth emerges; avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and bright.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss, or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove deadwood, and encourage air circulation. Prune after flowering to avoid removing buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or crossing branches; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage in new pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, as manzanita prefers being slightly root-bound. Typically every 2–3 years or when growth slows.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check for root rot; trim roots if crowded; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage. Incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf scorch, wilting, or bud drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf drop. Prolonged cold may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in winter. Avoid planting in frost-prone areas. Ensure good drainage to prevent cold soil saturation.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. Stress may lead to pest susceptibility.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture. Avoid fertilizing during heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed. Avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Arctostaphylos manzanita may induce mild gastrointestinal symptoms in cats upon ingestion. The toxic effects are generally limited to digestive disturbances and are not typically severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Arctostaphylos manzanita can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested in large amounts. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive system, leading to discomfort but not severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Arctostaphylos manzanita contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive discomfort and is not considered life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Manzanita toxic to pets?
A: No, Manzanita is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Manzanita require a lot of water?
A: No, Manzanita is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Manzanita attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days during activ |
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