Overview
Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck is a plant that belongs to the Ericaceae family. This plant is commonly found in the western United States, specifically in California and Oregon. This plant has several common names, including sticky-leaf manzanita, and sticky manzanita.
General Appearance
The sticky-leaf manzanita is a small, evergreen shrub that typically grows to be one to two meters tall. The leaves of this plant are oval in shape and are about two to four centimeters long. The leaves are dark green with a sticky texture and can have a waxy appearance. The plant produces small, pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are followed by bright red or orange berries that are about one centimeter in diameter. The plant is drought-tolerant and has a deep root system that helps it survive in a variety of environments.
Uses
The sticky-leaf manzanita has several uses. Indigenous tribes in California and Oregon have used the plant's leaves to make a tea that is said to have medicinal properties. The tea is said to help with digestive problems and can be used as an astringent. The berries of the plant are eaten by birds and small mammals and the plant is an important food source for wildlife. The plant is also used as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscaping.
Conclusion
The sticky-leaf manzanita is a versatile plant that has several uses and is an important part of the ecosystem in the western United States. Its unique appearance makes it a popular choice as an ornamental shrub, and its leaves and berries have been used for medicinal and food purposes for centuries.
Light Requirements
Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck is a species that generally prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, but excessive shade may lead to stunted growth and poor development of the crown.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is tolerant of various temperature fluctuations, but it prefers a Mediterranean climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. It can withstand a temperature range of 10-30°C but during hot weather, it may require occasional watering to keep the soil moist and cool. In addition, it is mostly found in regions with elevations ranging between sea level to 2,400 meters.
Soil Requirements
Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck mostly grows in well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils with a low level of organic matter. This plant prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil with pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. In addition, this plant is highly intolerant of waterlogged soil and requires well-draining soil to avoid root rot issues. Thus, adding sand or grit to heavy soil can improve drainage.
Cultivation of Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck
Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck grows well in USDA Hardiness Zones 8-10. It prefers well-drained, acidic soils, but can tolerate some drought and periodic flooding. This plant is resistant to many diseases and pests, making it a low-maintenance option.
Watering Needs for Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck
Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck needs regular watering during its first year after planting. After that, it can survive on natural rainfall. However, during extended drought periods, supplemental watering is necessary to maintain plant health and growth. Be sure to water at the base of the plant, taking care not to wet the foliage or flowers.
Fertilizing Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck
Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck does not require much fertilization. In fact, too much fertilizer can damage the plant. In the plant's first year, apply a slow-release granular fertilizer or compost to the soil around the base of the plant. After that, fertilization is not necessary unless the plant shows signs of slow growth or nutrient deficiencies.
Pruning Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck
Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck does not require much pruning. However, if the plant becomes unruly or starts to outgrow its desired space, you can prune it back in late winter or early spring. Use sharp, clean pruning shears and make cuts just above the leaf node. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant's overall volume in one pruning session.
Propagation of Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck
Arctostaphylos hispidula T.J. Howell var. viscosissima M.E. Peck, commonly known as Sticky White-Leaf Manzanita, can be propagated through various methods:
Seed propagation
One way to propagate Sticky White-Leaf Manzanita is through seed propagation. The seeds need to be collected when they are mature, which is typically from late summer to early fall. The collected seeds should be sown in containers filled with a well-draining soil mix that contains equal parts of sand and peat moss. The containers should be covered with a plastic sheet to retain moisture, and they should be placed in a shaded area until the seeds germinate. After germination, the seedlings should be moved to a location with partial sun exposure.
Softwood cutting propagation
Another method to propagate Sticky White-Leaf Manzanita is through softwood cutting propagation. The cuttings should be taken from new growth stems in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 4-5 inches long and should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should then be inserted into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. The pot should be covered with a plastic sheet to retain moisture, and it should be placed in a shaded area until the cuttings take root. Once the cuttings start growing, they should be transplanted into a bigger pot or to a location with partial sun exposure.
Division propagation
Sticky White-Leaf Manzanita can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This method is typically used with mature plants, and it should be done during the dormant season. To divide the plant, the root ball should be carefully removed from the soil and separated into sections using clean pruning shears. The sections should be replanted in a well-draining soil mix, and they should be watered regularly until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Arctostaphylos hispidula var. viscosissima
Arctostaphylos hispidula var. viscosissima, commonly known as the "sticky whiteleaf manzanita," is a shrub that is native to the western United States. While these plants are generally hardy and can withstand a range of growing conditions, they are not immune to disease and pest problems. Here is some information on managing common diseases and pests that might affect this plant:
Common Diseases
Some common diseases that can affect Arctostaphylos hispidula var. viscosissima include:
- Phytophthora root rot: This disease is caused by the Phytophthora fungus and can cause the roots of the plant to rot, leading to wilting and death. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering, provide good drainage, and avoid planting in areas with poor soil.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the foliage dry, thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Leaf spot: Several fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot, which can lead to yellowing and shedding of leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to prune out infected foliage and apply a fungicide as necessary.
Common Pests
Arctostaphylos hispidula var. viscosissima may also be susceptible to damage from several pests, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the foliage and cause yellowing, mottling, and wilting of leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the foliage well-watered and to apply a miticide if necessary.
- Scales: Several species of scale insects can infest the foliage and stems of the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage scales, it is important to prune out heavily infested branches and apply a horticultural oil or insecticide as necessary.
- Caterpillars: Some species of caterpillars can feed on the foliage and stems of the plant, causing defoliation and stunted growth. To manage caterpillars, it is important to handpick and remove the insects or apply a biological insecticide.
Remember to always follow the instructions on any pesticide label, and to use chemicals only as a last resort. Proper cultural practices, such as good irrigation and fertilization, can go a long way toward preventing and managing pest and disease problems in Arctostaphylos hispidula var. viscosissima.
