Whitehair Manzanita

Arctostaphylos viridissima, commonly known as Whitehair Manzanita, is a species of evergreen shrub native to the coastal regions of central California, particularly in the areas of Santa Cruz and Monterey counties. This plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet) and exhibits a dense, rounded form. The branches are often twisted and gnarled, giving the shrub a distinctive appearance. The bark is smooth and reddish-brown, which peels away in thin strips, a characteristic feature of many manzanitas.

The leaves of Arctostaphylos viridissima are small, ranging from 1 to 3 centimeters in length, and are typically oval to lanceolate in shape. They are glossy green on the upper surface and have a lighter, somewhat hairy underside, which contributes to the common name “Whitehair Manzanita.” The flowering period occurs in late winter to early spring, when clusters of small, urn-shaped flowers appear, usually white to pale pink in color. These flowers are attractive to various pollinators, including bees. Following flowering, the plant produces small, round berries that are typically red to orange when mature. These fruits are edible and can be consumed by wildlife, contributing to the plant’s ecological role as a food source.

Whitehair Manzanita is well-adapted to its native habitat, often found in sandy or rocky soils and thriving in dry, well-drained conditions. It has developed a thick, waxy cuticle on its leaves to minimize water loss, making it resilient to drought. Additionally, the plant is fire-adapted, with the ability to resprout from its root system after a fire event, which is beneficial in its fire-prone Mediterranean climate. Human uses of Arctostaphylos viridissima include its application in landscaping for erosion control and as an ornamental plant, valued for its attractive foliage and flowers.