Hairy Manzanita

Arctostaphylos columbiana

Physical Characteristics

Arctostaphylos columbiana is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from March to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[3, 177]. The fruit is best harvested when slightly under-ripe since the fully mature pulp is mealy[183]. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent A decoction of the bark is used in the treatment of diarrhoea[257].

Known Hazards

None known