Manzanita

Photo: Melinda Young Stuart – VisualHunt)

There are not many plants to encourage the customer who tells us that they just want a carefree plant that is tough and doesn’t need watering. One plant does come to mind however – the Manzanita, the common name for Arctostaphylos. There are over 60 species that fall under the category and they range from groundcovers (Kinnikinnick) to tree-like varieties.

There is much to admire about these beautiful plants. Glossy evergreen leaves set off clusters of tiny bell-shaped flowers that appear in late winter and early spring. The flowers are followed by shiny fruit. The bark is reddish-brown and peels in flakes. As larger specimens mature, the limbs twist and turn in attractive architectural patterns.

Photo: ((brian)) – VisualHunt

They are indeed easy to grow, provided that you give them the proper growing conditions. Although drought tolerant once they are established, they will need watering after they are planted. Give them a deep watering at least once per week. After the first season, no supplemental watering is needed except for an occasional watering once per month. Excellent drainage is necessary and they are tolerant of poor soils (rocky, sandy, etc.). When planting, do NOT add compost or any type of rich soil additives. These are acid-loving plants so never add lime to the soil. Mulch with bark chips or gravel. Pinch new growth to force branching.

We currently have the following varieties available for purchase in both 5 gallon pots and smaller. Call us for more details.

‘Austin Griffiths’ – one of the best landscape varieties, this one make a nice 8-9′ shrub. It is fast growing. Pink flowers appear as early as December.

‘Chieftan’ – a dwarf variety that gets about 2-3′. Leaves emerge with reddish tints. Flowers are white tinged with pink.

‘Panchito’ – Very cold hardy variety (to minus 20 degrees!) that is also a dwarf, growing 3′ x 3′. Flowers are light pink.

Photo: Beedle Um Bum – VisualHunt