Description
Arctostaphlos – Bearberry – Manzanita
This gensus of around 50 species of evergreen shrubs or small trees in the Ericaceae family. 2 species are widely distributed through cool climates in the northen hemisphere. They have purple, orange, reddish brown bark that’s either smooth or peeling flakes. The leaves are small alternating and are smooth or toothed. Their tough plants for example they survive California’s wild fires. The flower are tiny bells, white or pink. Flowering in irregular clusters. The fruit has been used for juicing, and making flower.
All species need lime free soil. They like full or part shade in moist but well drained soil. Feedings may be required.
Acceptable to Exobasidum bud and leafs are common. Susceptible to a variety of other fungal diseases on leaves and on stem.
Arctostaphlos uva-ursi ‘Massachusettes’
Found in the wild in colder areas of the northern hemisphere. This horizontal grower can cascade over walls forming dark green mats. It has tubular white flushed with pink flowers. Followed by green berries ripening to red. In autumn and winter the foliage has intense red tones. Leaves are used for tanning and in Russia as a tea.
