Brittleleaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos crustacea) is a striking evergreen shrub native to California, known for its smooth, reddish bark and clusters of urn-shaped white t
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for best growth and flowering.
Drought Tolerant Once Established
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Avoid overwatering, especially in summer.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Acidic
50% intensity
Moderate to Warm
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures but thrives in mild to warm climates. Protect from extreme frost.
Low Feed
25% intensity
Requires minimal to no fertilization. If needed, use a slow-release, low-nitrogen type in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply but infrequently once established. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of death for Arctostaphylos species.
Reduce watering significantly in the summer months to mimic natural dry periods.
Prune to shape or remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning is best done after flowering. Avoid heavy pruning, as this species does not respond well to significant cuts into old wood.
Light thinning can improve air circulation and overall plant health.
Propagation is typically done from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or fall. Rooting can be slow.
Alternatively, seeds can be sown in fall, but stratification is usually required for germination, making it a more challenging method for most gardeners.
Repotting is rarely necessary and often detrimental due to their sensitive root systems. If a plant must be moved, do so during its dormant period in winter.
Handle the root ball with extreme care to minimize disturbance. Consider planting directly into its final location if possible.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Brittleleaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos crustacea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arctostaphylos |
| Species | Arctostaphylos crustacea |
Similar in genus Arctostaphylos
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
