Arctostaphylos densiflora ‘Sentinel’, Sentinel Manzanita

Somewhat more upright in habit but less dense and less uniform than its cousin Arctostaphylos ‘Howard McMinn’, Sentinel is a far heavier bloomer with LOTS of vivid pink blossoms and soft grey green leaves. A relatively easy and dependable manzanita, growing 4 to 6 ft. tall and wide. Distinctive burgundy-colored bark adds to its charm.

 It provides an early nectar source for hummingbirds, bumble bees and other beneficial insects as it blooms in winter when other plants are dormant. ‘Sentinel’ manzanita will tolerate heavy, rich soils but is much happier in sandy loam or sand and is more drought tolerant than the other Arctostaphylos densiflora cultivars. One of the best performers in beach sand, and also known as very clay tolerant. Like most other manzanitas, it doesn’t tolerate direct salt spray. Give it full sun.

A fantastic choice as a low hedge for the perimeter of a yard. Beautiful next to the sidewalk or as a foundation planting, especially against brickwork. It also works well as a stand alone specimen in a small yard.