Arctostaphylos densiflora ‘Howard McMinn’, Howard McMinn Manzanita

Howard McMinn is one of the most popular of the manzanitas for several good reasons. It is rounded in form and profusely branched, growing 3 to 6 ft. tall. It has beautiful mahogany trunks, shiny green leaves and abundant light pink flowers. One of the last manzanitas to bloom; Tiny pink flowers that appear in late winter through spring. As it matures it will open up and reveal more of its twisting, red branches.

It is frequently chosen for gardens due to its tolerance for different soils and summer watering. However, waterlogged soils should be avoided. Stop irrigating after it is established—generally after one or two years. It likes to be five to ten feet from a watered area where it can get the root moisture without the wet feet it hates. Extra irrigation in summer will result in a short-lived shrub. Prune in fall to remove dead or dying wood, or to improve the shape. Howard McMinn takes shearing well and can be used for a hedge. Plant in full sun in coastal sites, and sun or part shade if planted inland. Although manzanitas are naturally found in chaparral or open woodlands, this cultivar is one of the most tolerant of garden conditions. Combine with other species of manzanitas for a long bloom season.

Moths, hummingbirds and butterflies are attracted to the flowers, and animals eat the berries. Deer may eat the berries but generally leave the plant alone. The fruits are also edible for people. Traditionally they were dried and ground for a type of granulated sugar. They were also used to make cider. Manzanita is Spanish for little apple, and the fruits do indeed resemble little apples.