Family: Ericaceae
Author: Parry
Bibliography: Bull. Calif. Acad. Sci. 2: 492 (1887)
Year: 1887
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Arctostaphylos
Vegetable: False
Observations: N. California
Description
White-leaf manzanita, scientifically named Arctostaphylos viscida, is a notable species belonging to the Ericaceae family. This charming shrub was first described in the scientific literature by Parry, who documented it in an 1887 issue of the Bulletin of the California Academy of Sciences.
Endemic to Northern California, the white-leaf manzanita thrives in the region’s unique climate and soil conditions. This perennial plant is distinguished by its distinctive white leaves, which not only contribute to its aesthetic appeal but also play a crucial role in its adaptation to the local environment. The leaves are covered with fine hairs that reflect sunlight, helping the plant to conserve moisture during the dry summer months.
White-leaf manzanita typically grows on well-drained soils, often found in chaparral and woodland ecosystems. These habitats are characterized by long periods of drought and occasional brush fires, conditions to which the white-leaf manzanita has impressively adapted. The plant’s thick, woody branches, and resilient root system enable it to survive and regenerate even after a fire.
The flora surrounding the white-leaf manzanita often includes other drought-resistant perennials, creating a biodiverse ecosystem where each species plays a role in the overall health of the habitat. The plant’s small, bell-shaped flowers attract various pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds, contributing to the propagation of the species.
Throughout its historical presence, the white-leaf manzanita has been a subject of interest not only for botanists but also for nature enthusiasts and conservationists. Its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions makes it a vital component of Northern California’s natural landscape. The study and preservation of Arctostaphylos viscida provide insight into the evolutionary strategies plants employ to survive and flourish in challenging habitats, highlighting the importance of conserving these resilient species for future generations.
Common Names
Eng: sticky whiteleaf manzanita, white-leaf manzanita, whiteleaf manzanita
En: White-leaf manzanita, Sticky whiteleaf manzanita, Whiteleaf manzanita
Zh: 白叶熊果, 白葉熊果
Zh-hant: 白葉熊果
Synonyms
- Uva-ursi viscida ((Parry) A.Heller)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Nov 14, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 7, 2014 by EOL − Scot Loring (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 16, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 5, 2021 by Katherine Witt (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 26, 2022 by Tristan Bellier (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 21, 2013 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 13, 2015 by EOL − paloma (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 14, 2011 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Feb 14, 2011 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 7, 2014 by EOL − Scot Loring (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 16, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 16, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 21, 2013 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 14, 2011 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 14, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 24, 2008 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 7, 2009 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2882505)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17964-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Arctostaphylos viscida Parry)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub