SafePlants

Indian Manzanita (Arctostaphylos mewukka)

Arctostaphylos mewukka, commonly known as Indian Manzanita, is a species of manzanita found in specific regions of California.

Considerations for Children

• Manzanita berries were historically crushed to create cider, indicating the presence of small parts that might be of interest to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos mewukka
• Common Name: Indian Manzanita
• Subspecies: Arctostaphylos mewukka Merriam subsp. mewukka

Distribution and Habitat

• Primarily found in southeastern San Diego County, California.
• Specifically associated with the Manzanita Reservation.
• Also mentioned in reference to the Oregon Coast (Manzanita, Nehalem area), although this may be a place name rather than a plant location.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• The Manzanita Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of the Manzanita Reservation is a federally recognized tribe of Kumeyaay Indians.
• Manzanita berries were historically used by some California Indian tribes to make cider.
• Chairman Leroy Elliott, from the Manzanita Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, was the last fluent speaker of the Kumeyaay language at Manzanita.

Quirky Facts

• The Manzanita Reservation was established in 1891.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Mention of "Indian warrior plants" growing near manzanita, suggesting potential ecological relationships with other plant species. Indian warrior is related to Indian paintbrushes.

Further Information

• Reference to the book "Seaweed, Salmon, and Manzanita Cider: A California Indian Feast" by Margaret Dubin and Sara-Larus Tolley, which provides insights into Native American food traditions.