| Big Berry Manzanita | |
| Arctostaphylos glauca |
A beautiful red-barked manzanita with large fruits.
Description: Small shrubby tree to 8-12ft. Known (as are other manzanitas) for its
gorgeous deep-red colored bark.
Hardiness: Will survive temperatures several
degrees below 0 degress Farenheit.
Growing Environment: Grows well in arid and near-desert climates.
Needs little water, likes full sun. Tolerates salty soil and will
grow in snow covered regions.
Propagation: By seeds. Seeds are extremely slow to germinate and benefit from heat (naturally fire) treatment. They generally need 12-18 months germinate time.
Uses: Red berry-fruits are edible. Can be used to make a cider-like beverage, as well as flavoring for foods and drinks. Leaves can be used for tea and a dye can be extracted as well.
Native Range: Native to coastal counties of California, from the Bay Area through San Diego, and into Baja, Mexico.