Grayleaf manzanita, Pointleaf Manzanita

Arctostaphylos pungens

Physical Characteristics

Arctostaphylos pungens is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft) by 2 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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 dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Southern N. America - Mexico.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruits are edible and among the best-tasting manzanitas, less astringent than A. patula. The red to reddish-brown drupes contain 4–8 nutlets, which are also edible. Unripe fruits can be tart, but they are often palatable. Mature fruits are sweet-tart with powdery flesh. Flowers can be steeped into tea [2-3]. Fruit - raw or cooked[257]. An agreeable acid flavour, but the fruit is dry and mealy[95]. Hard to digest, the fruit should be eaten in moderation[95]. It can be dried and ground into a powder and then used as mush or as a flavouring in soups, etc[257]. A cooling drink can be made from the fruit[161, 257]. Fruits ground into meal for mush, cakes, or cider-like drinks. Historically important to Native American diets [2-3].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Skin An infusion of the leaves is used in the treatment of diarrhoea[257]. An infusion is also used in the treatment of the rash caused by poison oak, Toxicodendron diversiloba[257]. Leaves are sometimes used as mild astringents.

Known Hazards

None known