Arctostaphylos montereyensis, commonly known as Monterey Manzanita or Toro Manzanita, is an evergreen shrub endemic to the maritime chaparral of Monterey County, California, particularly around Fort Ord and Toro County Park near Salinas. It is adapted to sandy, well-drained soils within this coastal ecosystem. The shrub typically grows to a height of 3 to 7 feet and is characterized by its bristly, glandular twigs and dark green, rough, bristly leaves that are round to oval in shape. During the winter to early spring, it produces dense clusters of urn-shaped flowers that are white to pink, followed by bristly, glandular drupes about a centimeter wide.

Monterey Manzanita is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It is also appreciated for its attractive bark, which can range from reddish-brown to gray, peeling in thin sheets to reveal a smooth, reddish underbark. This shrub is often used in habitat restoration projects and as an ornamental in residential landscapes. It requires little maintenance once established and is best suited to full sun or partial shade conditions. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0