Mock Bearberry Manzanita

Mock Bearberry manzanita is an evergreen, low-spreading selection from Colorado’s Uncompahgre Plateau. Its pink-white urn-shaped flowers and red berries add seasonal detail above a dense groundcover that stays green through winter. ## Form and seasonal interest This broadleaf evergreen forms a spreading mat, generally about 10–18 inches tall and 3–5 feet wide in Plant Select’s profile. Small waxy flowers appear in early spring and can develop into red fruit on established plants. The foliage and berries keep the planting visually present through winter. [Plant Select](https://plantselect.org/plant/arctostaphylos-x-coloradensis/) identifies it as the original 2005 introduction from this group of Colorado natural hybrids. ## Siting and soil Use it on slopes, in a rock garden, or as a low evergreen layer where its width can develop. Full sun or part sun suits it; late-afternoon shade may help in exposed sites ([Plant Select](https://plantselect.org/plant/arctostaphylos-x-coloradensis/)). Choose well-drained sandy or loamy soil. Plant Select describes its water needs as moderate to xeric and recommends good drainage; water during establishment, then reduce irrigation as roots settle in. ## Maintenance Allow space for natural spreading and keep competing weeds down until the mat fills in. Routine pruning is generally unnecessary; remove damaged branches when needed.