SafePlants

Arctostaphylos mendocinoensis - Pygmy Manzanita

Arctostaphylos mendocinoensis, commonly known as Pygmy Manzanita, is a species within the manzanita genus. This plant is notable for its connection to pygmy forests and its specific habitat.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos mendocinoensis P.V. Wells
• Common Name: Pygmy Manzanita
• Family: Belongs to the genus Arctostaphylos, which includes various manzanita species.
• Synonyms and Alternative Names:
  • Arctostaphylos nummularia subsp. mendocinoensis (P.V. Wells) V.T. Parker
  • Arctostaphylos nummularia ssp. mendocinoensis

Distribution and Habitat

• Endemic to Mendocino County, California.
• Frequently found in pygmy forests, including those on the Pygmy Forest Ecological Staircase along Jug Handle Creek.
• Also observed on Hood Mountain in Sonoma County, California.
• Specific locations include areas around Lindquist Ridge, approximately 1,500 feet above sea level.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Typically a shrub or groundcover.
• Reaches a width of up to 6 feet (W:6').
• Perennial plant, indicating a lifespan of more than two years.

Ecological Role

• Often associated with specific soil types found in pygmy forests.
• Can be found in association with Mendocino Cypress and other pygmy forest flora.

Cultivation

• Requires frequent watering, approximately every 2-3 weeks, reducing frequency with abundant rains.
• Thrives in zones 9a-11.

Quirky Facts

• The term "pygmy forest" has been in use since the mid-1800s to describe ecosystems featuring stunted tree and shrub growth.
• Pygmy Manzanita is sometimes found alongside other plants such as rhododendron, huckleberry, and Labrador Tea in pygmy forests.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Arctostaphylos mendocinoensis.
• Additional information is available on Garden Guides related to gardening with Pygmy Manzanita.