Arctostaphylos nummularia - Glossyleaf Manzanita

Description

This shrubby manzanita grows 5 to 6 feet tall and wide with a nicely rounded habit. Attractive shiny green leaves have dark red edges, accented by white flowers in winter. It is found on rocky soil among Knobcone Pines and oaks in the Santa Cruz Mountains. It is quite drought tolerant and will take full sun or part shade - a good choice under oaks. Somewhat deer resistant, expect some browsing on the new growth, but they generally ignore the older foliage.