Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. glandulosa

Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. glandulosa, or Eastwood Manzanita, is a beautiful low-growing manzanita that grows primarily in the western foothills and mountain ranges of California. It tends to grow in rocky outcrops, slopes and ridges, at elevations from 1000-6200 feet. Very diverse with many varieties; a common species of disagreement among botanists.

Leaf colors vary from a vibrant yellow-green to grey green to dark green, depending on the season and the amount of water. Flowers are white to light pink and attract hummingbirds. Bark is red and become gnarled with age. When burned, this plant resprouts from its basal burl and can reach very old ages.

It seems to do best if planted in the spring, when it can grow quickly and establish itself before the dry summer months. It handles weekly water for the first year after planting, after which it’s best to naturalize. Plant on slopes or well draining flats. It will look green and vibrant year round if it can stretch its roots out to a nearby damper spot or irrigated area. It likes sun or part shade.