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Monterey manzanita
Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos montereyensis
Family: Ericaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Arctostaphylos montereyensis and Arctostaphylos hookeri: Monterey Manzanitas
This article provides information about two species of Manzanita native to the Monterey, California region: Arctostaphylos montereyensis and Arctostaphylos hookeri.
Common Names
- Arctostaphylos montereyensis: Monterey Manzanita, Toro Manzanita
- Arctostaphylos hookeri: Monterey Manzanita
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Ericaceae (Heath)
- Arctostaphylos hookeri 'Mills'
- Synonyms: Arctostaphylos hookeri ssp.
Considerations for Pets
- Some varieties, such as evergreen creeping manzanita, have dark red branches that tend to root, allowing the plant to spread. This spreading growth habit might make it tempting for pets to chew or dig around the base of the plant.
Distribution and Habitat
- Arctostaphylos montereyensis is endemic to Monterey County, California, including the Fort Ord area, and has been found in one location in San Luis Obispo.
- Arctostaphylos hookeri is also native to Monterey, California, specifically the central and southern Monterey Bay area. It thrives in full sun and sandy soils.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Arctostaphylos hookeri 'Wayside' is an evergreen shrub that grows to approximately two feet high and six feet wide, featuring bright green leaves tinged with red.
- Arctostaphylos hookeri Monterey Carpet manzanita is a smaller evergreen shrub, reaching about one foot high and four feet wide. It is described as a neat and compact form with bright green leaves and pink blooms.
- Arctostaphylos hookeri typically forms a dense mound, growing 1.5 to 4 feet high and spreading 6 feet or more. It bears small flowers.
- There exists an evergreen, creeping manzanita variety that stays under 1 foot tall with small, deep green leaves. Its dark red branches tend to root and spread up to 8 feet wide.
- Manzanitas generally feature sinuous and smooth, earthy red-tinged branches, waxy urn-style blossoms, and handsome rounded evergreen leaves.
Ecological Role
- Arctostaphylos hookeri can form a burl.
Quirky Facts
- There is a textile design referred to as "Monterey Manzanita," indicating the plant's aesthetic appeal and potential inspiration for artistic creations.
Further Information
- CalPhotos: Provides images of Arctostaphylos montereyensis.
- Dave's Garden: A community forum for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
- California Academy of Sciences: Offers photos of Toro Manzanita (Arctostaphylos montereyensis).