Arctostaphylos purissima, commonly known as La Purisima Manzanita, is an evergreen shrub native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral of California, particularly in Santa Barbara County. It typically reaches a height of 1 meter (3.3 ft) but can exceed 4 meters (13 ft) in ideal conditions. The plant’s form can vary from low and spreading to tall and erect, making it versatile in landscape design. The foliage is characterized by shiny, hairless green leaves that are round to oval and smooth along the edges, measuring up to 2.5 centimeters long. The shrub is notable for its long, white bristles that add a unique texture to its appearance. During the flowering season, which occurs in winter and early spring, La Purisima Manzanita produces hanging clusters of spherical to urn-shaped flowers, each about half a centimeter long, which are typically white to pale pink and quite showy. The fruit is a hairless drupe, ranging from one half to one centimeter wide, and may attract birds and other wildlife.

La Purisima Manzanita is valued for its drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and xeriscaping. Its ability to thrive in full sun or part shade, along with its low water requirements, makes it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It is often used in native plant gardens, as a specimen plant, or for erosion control on slopes due to its deep root system. While it prefers soils with fast drainage, it can adapt to various soil types as long as they are well-draining. Gardeners should be aware that this species can be susceptible to fungal diseases if conditions are too wet or if there is poor air circulation. Additionally, it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0