SafePlants

Presidio Manzanita: A Botanical Rarity

The Presidio Manzanita, scientifically known as Arctostaphylos hookeri ssp. ravenii, is an extremely rare member of the Manzanita family, with its survival closely tied to the unique environment of San Francisco's Presidio.

Considerations for Pets

• Manzanita is a common name for many species of the genus Arctostaphylos.
• The text mentions car exhaust and pavement near the plant, suggesting a potential for environmental contaminants.

Considerations for Children

• Manzanita is a common name for many species of the genus Arctostaphylos.
• The text mentions car exhaust and pavement near the plant, suggesting a potential for environmental contaminants.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos hookeri ssp. ravenii (P.V. Wells)
• Common Names: Presidio Manzanita, Raven's Manzanita
• Synonyms:
  • Arctostaphylos montana ssp. ravenii (P. Wells) - Note: The text indicates this is not an active name, and refers back to Arctostaphylos montana ssp. ravenii.
  • Arctostaphylos hookeri var. ravenii

Distribution and Habitat

• The Presidio Manzanita is endemic to the Presidio Park in San Francisco, California.
• It is known from only one documented location in the wild.
• The plant exists on a serpentine outcrop, an area characterized by pavement and nonnative trees.

Ecological Role

• The Presidio Manzanita is a California endangered plant species. Killing or possessing plants from wild populations is prohibited by California law.
• It is also on the U.S. Endangered Species List.

Morphological Characteristics

• The Presidio Manzanita is a rare native shrub.
• Manzanita is an evergreen plant that belongs to the heather family.

Genetic Information

• The Presidio plants there belong to a single clone.

Interesting Interactions

• The text mentions ample nesting habitats in the Presidio which has resulted in a diverse population.

Resources and Further Information

• Cal Flora
• Jepson Manual: Higher Plants