Pointleaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos pungens)

   

 

Overview, bark, and flowers of Arctostaphylos pungens. Photographs by Wynn Anderson.

• Common English Names: Pointleaf Manzanita, Mexican Manzanita
• Common Spanish Names: Manzanita, Manzanilla, Pingüica
• Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos pungens (ARC-toe-STAFF-ill-os PUN-gens)
• Family: Ericaceae (Heath Family)
• Geographic Range: Trans-Pecos Texas west to Utah and California, south in Mexico to Oaxaca
• Plant Form: Evergreen Shrub to about 5 to 7 ft.
• Remarks: Waxy, bell-like flowers and fruit like tiny apples. Reddish-brown smooth bark. Full sun, tolerates alkaline soils, sand, clay. Fruit for birds.

Last Update: 29 May 2004