Arctostaphylos tomentosa

Also Known As

Woollyleaf Manzanita

Plant type

shrub

size

H: 3'-6'
W: 4'-9'

planting zones

7a-10b

More Options

Arctostaphylos tomentosa plant details

Arctostaphylos tomentosa is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with blue foliage. In spring and winter pink flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Attracts bees, birds and hummingbirds making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in acidic, average, clay, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant, verticillium wilt resistant and wind tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Arctostaphylos tomentosa

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: ericaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue
Mature size: 4 FT - 9 FT - wide, 3 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: pink blooms in spring and winter
Uses: year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Arctostaphylos tomentosa

USDA Zones: 7a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer, heat, verticillium wilt and wind
Soil needs: acidic, average, clay, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Woollyleaf manzanita is endemic to California. The branches are woolly when young. This evergreen shrub is both low-lying and spreading, usually growing to about 5 ft, and wider than taller. Blooms from January to March, with soft pinkish-white flowers resembling delicate miniature Chinese lanterns. Fruits can be eaten dried or in baked treats, like "little apples". The dried leaves are used for tea which has a strong astringent taste and antiseptic properties, and can be used to treat mild kidney and bladder problems. The wood is used for making fine furniture. Endemic to California Excellent medium size shrub for hummingbirds and wildlife such as quail. An important food for native tribes. Was dired and baked into bread. Found in chaparral canyons, foothills, and lower-elevation mountains. Communitites located in Closed-cone Pine Forest, Chaparral Between 0 and 3,609 feet.

By: The Watershed Nursery

One of the hardier California species, it can easily handle 0 °F and perhaps lower.

By: The Desert Northwest

Gardening facts about Arctostaphylos tomentosa plant

How to Grow Arctostaphylos tomentosa

Sun Exposure
- sun
Water Needs
- occasional - drought tolerant
Water Needs
- dry in summer
Soil Needs
- clay
- acidic
- adaptable
- average
- lean
- well-drained
- rocky
- gritty
Special Situation
- heat tolerant
- wind tolerant
- verticillium wilt resistant