Dr. Hurd Manzanita — Arctostaphylos manzanita 'Dr. Hurd'

Arctostaphylos manzanita 'Dr. Hurd'

Dr. Hurd Manzanita develops into a broad evergreen shrub or small tree with pale green leaves, white winter flowers and a dramatic mahogany trunk. Give this large selection space to display its natural branching.

Growing in Southern California

• Sun & shade: Full sun.
• Water & drought tolerance: Very low after establishment; established plants generally prefer dry summers. Avoid frequent irrigation.
• Mature size: About 10–15 feet tall and 8–10 feet wide; mature specimens can broaden with age.
• Soil & drainage: Well-drained soil, including suitable clay sites where water does not collect.
• Growth rate: Moderate; growth varies with establishment and site.
• Pollinators & wildlife: Winter flowers support bees and hummingbirds; fruit and branches provide bird habitat.
• Maintenance & pruning: Prune sparingly in dry weather to remove dead or crossing wood. Gradually expose selected lower limbs if a small-tree form is wanted.
• Landscape uses: Specimen trees, large native borders, informal screens and dry hillside gardens.

Species reference photograph of Arctostaphylos manzanita. The cultivar shown is unverified. Photo by Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Resized for display.