Gasquet manzanita

Arctostaphylos hispidula Howell

Arctostaphylos hispidula, known as Gasquet manzanita, is a shrub native to the coastal mountain ranges of southern Oregon and northern California. It grows in serpentine soils and other mountain plant communities. The plant typically reaches heights of one to two meters and is characterized by bristly, glandular twigs and dark green, oval to lance-shaped leaves up to 3 cm long. It produces urn-shaped flowers in crowded inflorescences and small drupes measuring 5 to 7 mm in width.

Description

Arctostaphylos hispidula is a member of the Ericaceae family and was first described by Howell in 1901. It is an uncommon shrub in its native range, often found in specific ecological conditions. The species is part of the genus Arctostaphylos, which includes various manzanita species. Its bristly foliage and distinctive fruit make it a notable component of the local flora.