Montara Manzanita
Arctostaphylos montaraensis
Care
full sun
very low
8–16ft tall
Jan-Dec
Evergreen
Resistant
Prized
Berries eaten fresh or made into cider; traditional Indigenous use
Supports up to 68 butterfly and moth species in Mediterranean California
Coastal bluffs and chaparral near Montara in San Mateo County, below 1500 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your Montara Manzanita in full sun - this is non-negotiable. It's adapted to the dry slopes and ridges of the Bay Area's chaparral and coastal scrub, so choose a spot with excellent drainage and avoid low-lying areas that collect water. Space it about 8 feet apart if planting multiples, as it will grow 8–16 feet tall. The data doesn't specify soil type or planting season, so consult a local nursery for timing in your specific microclimate.
After Planting
Montara Manzanita is extremely drought-tolerant once established and needs very low water - overwatering is the #1 killer of this plant. Water moderately during your first summer to help it establish, then drastically reduce watering as it matures; in most Bay Area locations, rainfall alone sustains it year-round. Pruning details aren't covered in the available data, so check with your nursery for specific guidance. This evergreen shrub will bloom sporadically from winter through spring, attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies to your garden.
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Larval host plant for spring development
Larvae develop on foliage in spring months
Early spring forager when flowers available
Occasional nectar visitor when manzanita flowers present
Sap-feeding aphid specialized on Arctostaphylos species
Mammals
Browse foliage in fall when other resources scarce