Origin
Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula (T.J. Howell) J.E. Adams, commonly known as Eastwood's manzanita, is a small, evergreen shrub that occurs natively in the Pacific Coast Ranges from Monterey County to Sonoma County in California.
Common names
Aside from Eastwood's manzanita, this plant has other common names that include bristly manzanita, Stanford manzanita, and hairy manzanita, all of which refer to the fine hairs that cover its leaves and twigs.
Uses
Historically, Native Americans used the leaves of various manzanita species, including A. stanfordiana ssp. hispidula, for medicinal purposes, such as treating stomach and bladder problems. Today, the plant is primarily grown as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscaping. Its unique branching pattern, attractive red bark, and small, urn-shaped flowers make it an excellent choice to provide year-round interest in the garden or landscape.
General appearance
Eastwood's manzanita is a slow-growing, compact shrub that typically reaches a height between 3 to 6 feet and a spread of approximately 6 feet. The plant has a dense crown of branching stems that are covered with a red-brown bark that peels and flakes over time. The leaves are oval-shaped, leathery, and small, measuring approximately 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The leaves also have fine hairs on both sides, which give them a bristly texture. From winter to spring, the plant produces small, bell-shaped, pinkish-white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. Following flowering, the plant may develop small, red berries that are edible but not commonly consumed due to their astringent taste.
Light Requirements
Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula typically requires full sun exposure in order to thrive. This means that the plant should be exposed to direct sunlight for at least six hours per day. Without adequate sunlight, the plant may not grow properly and may even die. Therefore, it is important to avoid planting this species in areas that are heavily shaded or partially shaded.
Temperature Requirements
Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures. However, the optimal temperature range for this species is between 60°F and 80°F. Temperatures that are outside of this range can negatively impact growth and development, potentially leading to decreased plant health or even death. Additionally, this species prefers a Mediterranean climate, and may not thrive in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula can be complex, as the plant requires well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. This plant is typically found growing in rocky or gravelly soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It is also important to avoid soils that are excessively wet or compacted, as this can lead to root rot or other plant diseases. Finally, it is recommended to add organic matter to the soil prior to planting, as this can improve soil structure and provide additional nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
The Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula (T.J. Howell) J.E. Adams, commonly known as Eastwood's manzanita, is a slow-growing bushy evergreen that thrives in nutrient-poor, well-drained soil. To cultivate this plant, it's essential to plant it in an area that receives adequate sunlight and offers some protection from the wind. The best time to plant is during fall or early winter when the soil is moist, and temperatures are mild. Make sure to dig a hole twice as wide as the plant's root and plant it at the same depth as it was in the container.
Watering Needs
Eastwood's manzanita is drought-tolerant. However, when you first plant your manzanita, you must water it thoroughly to help anchor it in place and promote root growth. After this, watering the plant sparingly is enough. If you live in an area that receives low rainfall, then you may want to increase the frequency of watering, but be careful, as over-watering may be harmful to the plant's growth.
Fertilization
Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula is a native plant and can comfortably grow in nutrient-poor soil. It doesn't need frequent fertilization, and over-fertilizing may damage the plant. In case you feel the need to fertilize it, you can do so by using a mild, slow-release fertilizer. It's always advisable to consult with an expert to determine the appropriate fertilizer and the amount required for your plant.
Pruning
Pruning Eastwood's manzanita may help keep it in shape and promote flowering. It's advisable to prune during late-summer or early-fall after flowering is over. When pruning, ensure you don't cut beyond the woody portion of the stem, as this may cause damage to the plant. You can trim the plant by removing dead branches, crossing branches, and limbs that grow too low or too high. It's essential to use sterilized pruning tools to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula
There are several methods of propagation for Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula, including seed germination and vegetative propagation through cuttings or layering.
Seed Germination
Seed germination is a common method of propagating Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula. The best time to collect seeds is in the fall when the fruit is mature. The seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until planting in the spring. Seeds require stratification, a period of cold and moist treatment, to break their dormancy and stimulate germination. After stratification, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation methods include stem cuttings and layering. Stem cuttings should be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long and taken from the new growth of the plant. Cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. After planting, the cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they form roots.
Layering involves bending a low-hanging branch to the ground and covering it with soil. After a few months, the branch will form roots and can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula
Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula, commonly known as manzanita, is a shrub that is native to California and is known for its burgundy bark and evergreen foliage. Although manzanitas are generally hardy plants, they can be prone to certain diseases and pests that can cause damage if not managed properly. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions for managing them:
Diseases
Phytophthora Root Rot: Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing wilting and death of the plant. The disease can be prevented by planting the plant in well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering. If the disease is already present, the plant should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread.
Leaf Blight: Leaf blight is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves of the plant, eventually leading to defoliation. The disease can be managed by pruning affected branches and providing good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may also be used to control the disease.
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that causes sunken, discolored lesions on the branches of the plant. The disease can be managed by pruning affected branches and providing good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may also be used to control the disease.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. The pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or oil, or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation. The pests can be controlled by handpicking them off the plant or by using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a natural bacterial pesticide that specifically targets caterpillars.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing of the leaves and weakened growth. The pests can be controlled by pruning affected branches and by using horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to smother the pests.
By taking a proactive approach to disease and pest management, gardeners can ensure the health and vitality of their Arctostaphylos stanfordiana Parry ssp. hispidula plants. Regular monitoring and prompt action at the first sign of any issues can help prevent larger problems and ensure the long-term success of the plant in the landscape.
