Family: Ericaceae
Author: Greene
Bibliography: Pittonia 2: 171 (1891)
Year: 1891
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Arctostaphylos
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. U.S.A. to New Mexico and Mexico (Baja California Norte)
Description
The Green-leaf manzanita, scientifically known as Arctostaphylos patula, is a distinctive and resilient member of the Ericaceae family. This alluring shrub, originally described by Greene in 1891, has carved a niche for itself across various terrains of the western United States, stretching its range into New Mexico and even reaching down into Baja California Norte in Mexico.
Distinguished by its striking, glossy green leaves, the Green-leaf manzanita is a cornerstone of the evergreen landscapes it inhabits. The plant typically boasts a stout, spreading form, with branches that twist and turn elegantly, creating a natural architecture that is as functional as it is beautiful. These branches are often adorned with smooth, reddish-brown bark that adds a touch of color contrast against the greenery.
In spring, the Green-leaf manzanita showcases an array of small, bell-shaped flowers, which can range from pale pink to white. These blossoms not only enhance the visual appeal of the shrub but also serve a critical role in the ecosystem by attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Following the flowering period, the plant produces small, rounded fruits that mature to a rich red or brown hue, providing a food source for local wildlife.
Thriving in well-drained soils, Arctostaphylos patula is highly adaptable, managing to endure the challenging conditions of its native habitats. These areas are often characterized by poor, rocky soils and limited water availability. Despite these tough environments, the Green-leaf manzanita exhibits a remarkable drought tolerance, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and sustainable gardening practices.
The plant’s robust nature is complemented by its ecological benefits. It contributes to erosion control and supports the overall health of the ecosystem by offering habitat and food for various animal species. Gardeners and landscape designers value the Green-leaf manzanita not only for its low maintenance needs and durability but also for its capacity to add year-round beauty and structural interest to gardens and wild areas alike.
In summary, the Green-leaf manzanita is an exemplary species that embodies the resilience and adaptability of nature. Its presence across diverse regions, from the western U.S. to Mexico, underscores its versatility and ecological importance, making it a cherished plant among botanists, ecologists, and horticulturists.
Common Names
Eng: green-leaf manzanita, greenleaf manzanita
En: Green-leaf manzanita, Greenleaf manzanita
Nv: Dinastsoh
Synonyms
- Uva-ursi patula ((Greene) Abrams)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken May 28, 2010 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USFS Region 5 (cc-by)
Taken Nov 22, 1999 by EOL − William R. Hewlett (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2021 by Renee Winklmann (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 1, 2020 by ShawnaRay Boltin (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Feb 14, 2011 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 14, 2011 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 19, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 19, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Nov 4, 2012 by EOL − Justin (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 1, 2021 by Gloria Kosbie (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 1, 2021 by Gloria Kosbie (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 3, 2022 by Ambassador Velvety (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 1, 2020 by ShawnaRay Boltin (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Nov 6, 2021 by Xavier LAGURGUE (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 6, 2021 by Xavier LAGURGUE (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 10, 2021 by Elaine Kane (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 31, 2016 by EOL − R.J. Adams (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 27, 2015 by EOL − mhultgren (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 31, 2016 by EOL − R.J. Adams (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 31, 2016 by EOL − R.J. Adams (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 16, 2015 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 27, 2015 by EOL − mhultgren (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2882612)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17866-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Arctostaphylos patula Greene)
Specifications
Growth form>: Multiple Stem
Growth habit>: Shrub
Growth rate>: Slow
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.6
Ph minimum: 5.5