SafePlants

Eastwood's Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa)

Eastwood's manzanita, scientifically known as Arctostaphylos glandulosa, is a diverse and widespread shrub found in California and parts of western North America.

Considerations for Pets

• This manzanita has red-brown stems.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos glandulosa
• Common Name: Eastwood's manzanita
• Family: Ericaceae (Heath)
• Synonyms/Subspecies:
  • Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolia - Costa Baja manzanita, Del Mar
  • Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. adamsii - Adams' manzanita
  • Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp glandulosa
  • Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. glaucomollis
  • Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. mollis

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the coastal slopes of western North America, ranging from Oregon to California.
• Common in the coastal mountains of California, particularly in chaparral environments.
• Found in various habitats, including Palo Corona and Point Reyes.

Morphology and Growth

• Evergreen shrub, typically around 4-7 feet tall.
• Spreads via roots and can reach up to 10 feet wide.
• Features crooked, smooth, reddish stems.
• Leaves are gray, approximately 1 1/2 inches long.

Ecological Role

• Important food source for wildlife in southern California.

Quirky Facts

• Eastwood's manzanita is considered one of the most variable and difficult manzanitas to define.
• A botanist named Jepson trimmed this type of plant on a mountain trail in 1936.
• One source notes that Eastwood was a "talented taxonomist" who proposed over 600 accepted species.

Further Information

• California Academy of Sciences
• CalPhotos
• The Watershed Nursery (www.thewatershednursery.com)