Panchito Bearberry Manzanita

Panchito is a compact, evergreen manzanita selected from Colorado’s Uncompahgre Plateau. Its low mounded form carries small pink flowers and red fruit above evergreen foliage, making it useful for sunny, well-drained slopes and other dry western gardens. ## Form and seasonal interest [Plant Select](https://plantselect.org/plant/arctostaphylos-x-coloradensis-panchito/) describes Panchito as a broadleaf evergreen shrub, about 18–30 inches tall and 36–60 inches wide. Small waxy, urn-shaped flowers appear in early spring, with red berries possible on established plants. It is one of the original Plant Select manzanita introductions, first introduced in 2006; the program credits its selection and cultivation to Betsy Baldwin-Owens ([Plant Select](https://plantselect.org/plant/arctostaphylos-x-coloradensis-panchito/)). ## Siting and soil Plant in sun or part sun, preferably where afternoon shade and excellent drainage protect it from stress. Sandy or loamy soil is suitable; avoid waterlogged ground. It establishes slowly, so water regularly during the first seasons and allow the root system time to settle before reducing irrigation. Its mature spread can exceed several feet, so avoid crowding it against smaller plants. ## Maintenance Once established, Panchito needs little routine care. Avoid shearing; prune only damaged branches, preferably in spring. Maintain good drainage and keep weeds from competing while the plant is establishing.