Genus: Arctostaphylos

Common Names: manzanitas, bearberries

A genus comprised of around 70 species of shrubs and small trees, most of which are evergreen with ovular leaves and clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers which ripen into berries that resemble small apples (giving rise to its common name). Some species have edible berries and have been used in traditional medicine by first nations peoples. Arctostaphylos species are also popular ornamentals in dry-summer climates and numerous cultivars are available in the horticultural trade.

Distribution: mostly in chaparral plant communities from California north to British Columbia. One species, A. uva-ursi, is widespread in the temperate Northern hemisphere

Arctostaphylos nummularia 'Bear Belly'

Common name(s): glossyleaf manzanita, Fort Bragg manzanita

Description: evergreen shrub; a compact selection from Havens Neck, CA by the late Kent Taylor of Taylor's Herb Gardens. A low, dense mat of glossy green foliage and pinkish-white bell flowers in late winter.

Height: to 1 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.

Position: partial shade and lean, well-draining soil

Uses: ornamental, weed-suppressing groundcover, to attract pollinators

Winter Hardiness: to 5 F and below

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Freddy's Mound'

Common name(s): kinnikinnick

Description: evergreen shrub; description coming soon.

Height: to 1 ft. Spread: to 4 ft.

Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil

Uses: ornamental, weed-suppressing groundcover, to attract pollinators

Winter Hardiness: to 5 F and below