How to Grow and Care for Arctostaphylos

Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is an intricately branching plant native to the Northern Hemisphere. This plant's blossoms have a sweet smell. The Latin name Arctostaphylos uva-ursi means 'grape of the bear,' referring to the plant's berries.

Greenleaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos patula) is an evergreen shrub commonly found at moderate to high elevations in coniferous forests in western North America. Considered drought-tolerant, it flourishes in full sun but reportedly does not tolerate salt. Does best in well-drained soil.

Pointleaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos pungens) is a woody shrub that will grow from 91 to 305 cm tall. It is native to the western United States and is commonly found growing in medium to high elevation woodlands and chaparrals. It blooms from winter to summer with unique clusters of pink or white urn-shaped flowers.

Bigberry Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) can be found growing in chaparral communities and woodlands in its native California and Baja California. This large shrub can live for 100 years or more and does not start to fruit until at least age twenty. This species is dependent on wildfires for survival since its seeds only germinate after exposure to fire.

Eastwood's manzanita is an uncommon evergreen shrub. It is small and wide, with grayish green leaves, red bark, and white flowers. It is both drought and deer-tolerant and attractive to birds and pollinators.