Arctostaphylos silvicola

Silverleaf Manzanita

A rare and endangered manzanita once found on marine sand deposits in Scotts Valley where the Skypark housing development was built. An erect silver-gray shrub to 8 feet with smooth, dark red bark. Flowers white to pinkish followed by brown berries. A very long-lived plant requiring good drainage and no excess water.

Other uses: The manzanita was once prized for its many uses and the berry ripening a cause for a special dance. The berries, leaves, and smooth mahogany colored wood were all used for food, medicine, and tools.