Also known as Bolinas Manzanita
Marin manzanita (Arctostaphylos virgata) is an evergreen shrub native to California, prized for its striking red bark, delicate white flowers, and ornamental berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Optimal growth and flowering occur in at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Low Maintenance
25% intensity
Drought tolerant once established, water deeply but infrequently. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
Well-drained, sandy loam, clay loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers mild to warm temperatures. Can tolerate some frost but is sensitive to extreme heat and cold.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal fertilization. A light application in spring is sufficient if needed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Marin manzanita prefers dry conditions once established. Water deeply but infrequently during the first year to encourage deep root growth. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially in warmer months.
Prune Marin manzanita primarily to shape the plant or remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The best time for pruning is after flowering. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the plant.
Make clean cuts just above a bud or lateral branch to encourage natural growth patterns.
Propagation is typically done through cuttings taken in late summer or early fall. Use semi-hardwood cuttings. Rooting can be slow and requires consistent moisture and warmth.
Alternatively, seeds can be collected and sown, but stratification may be necessary to break dormancy.
Repotting is generally not recommended for established Marin manzanita as they dislike root disturbance. If necessary, repot young plants in early spring before active growth begins.
Use a well-draining soil mix and a pot that allows for sufficient root space, but avoid overly large containers.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Marin Manzanita (Arctostaphylos virgata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arctostaphylos |
| Species | Arctostaphylos virgata |
Similar in genus Arctostaphylos
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
