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Arctostaphylos ×media

Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos ×media

Family: Ericaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Arctostaphylos: A Diverse Genus

The genus Arctostaphylos encompasses a variety of fascinating plants, primarily found in western North America. This article explores several species and hybrids, highlighting their taxonomy, distribution, and unique characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some species of Arctostaphylos, like Arctostaphylos virgata, have sharp apical tips on their leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Arctostaphylos
  • Family: Ericaceae (Heath family)
  • Species: The text mentions several species including:
    • Arctostaphylos columbiana (Hairy Manzanita)
    • Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Kinnikinnik, Bearberry)
    • Arctostaphylos virgata (Bolinas Manzanita)
    • Arctostaphylos patula (Greenleaf Manzanita)
  • Hybrid: Arctostaphylos x media (Hybrid Manzanita, Media Manzanita). This is a naturally occurring hybrid between A. uva-ursi and A. columbiana. Synonyms include Arctostaphylos media Greene (pro sp.). Taxonomic Serial No.: 23497

Distribution and Habitat

  • Many Arctostaphylos species are native to California and the Pacific Coast, thriving in dry, arid regions.
  • Arctostaphylos columbiana is native to Washington.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Arctostaphylos species exhibit diverse growth habits, ranging from low-growing groundcovers to upright shrubs reaching up to 3 feet.
  • Arctostaphylos x media is noted for its variability and can be mat-forming. Some forms are evergreen groundcovers reaching up to 16 inches tall.
  • Leaves are typically evergreen, rounded, waxy, and can range in color from grey to silver sage or bright glossy green. They may have a sharp apical tip.
  • Flowers are often small, bell-shaped, and white, arranged in racemes, typically blooming in May.

Quirky Facts

  • Arctostaphylos is considered symbolic of the Pacific Coast.
  • Arctostaphylos uva-ursi is known as both Kinnikinnik and Bearberry.

Further Information

  • NCBI Taxonomy database
  • The Plant List
  • IPNI (International Plant Names Index)
  • Australian Plant Name Index
  • NYBG (New York Botanical Garden) Virtual Herbarium
  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Wikimedia Commons
  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
  • CalPhotos
  • Discover Life