Brittleleaf Manzanita
Arctostaphylos crustacea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Brittleleaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos crustacea) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
36"–120" H × 36"–120" W
Bloom
Jan, Feb, Mar
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Arctostaphylos crustacea (Brittleleaf Manzanita) is a striking native shrub with attractive mahogany-red bark and glossy evergreen foliage. It produces clusters of small urn-shaped white to pink flowers in winter and early spring, followed by red berries.
In an HOA neighborhood
Brittleleaf Manzanita is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone, backyard only.
- Size must be managed to maintain neat appearance
- Leaf litter may need periodic cleanup
Wildlife value
Provides important winter and early spring nectar for bees when few other plants are blooming. The berries are valuable food for birds and other wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Brittleleaf Manzanita fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.