SafePlants

Morro Manzanita (Arctostaphylos morroensis)

The Morro Manzanita, scientifically known as Arctostaphylos morroensis, is a distinctive and rare shrub endemic to a limited area of California.

Considerations for Pets

• This shrub has shredding bark.
• The text mentions viable seeds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos morroensis Wies. &amp Schreib.
• Common Name: Morro Manzanita, Morro Bay Manzanita
• Family: Ericaceae
• Kingdom: Plantae

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to California, specifically San Luis Obispo County.
• Found in a very limited coastal area.
• Thrives in sandy soil, particularly on sand dunes along Morro Bay.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Evergreen shrub with a tree-like shape.
• Can reach up to 12 feet high.
• Dense habit, typically growing to around 8 by 8 feet.
• Small, silvery-gray leaves.
• Red-gray bark that shreds handsomely.
• Small bell-shaped flowers blushed with pink in mid-season.
• Can reach 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide.

Ecological Role

• It is listed in the CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants on list 1B.1.
• It is considered endangered in its native region.
• Mentioned as a fire-recruiting, nonsprouting shrub.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Flowers attract hummingbirds.

Further Information

• CNPS (California Native Plant Society)
• Dave's Garden
• Discover Life
• Atlas of Sensitive Species of the Morro Bay Area (Department of Parks and Recreation)