Manzanita Berries

Arctostaphylos spp.

Illustration: Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.) smooth red bark and berries

Identification: Shrubs/small trees with unmistakable SMOOTH REDDISH bark that peels; small urn-shaped pink-white flowers; red-brown mealy berries.

Dangerous look-alikes: No toxic look-alike with the smooth red bark. Berries are dry and mealy — an acquired taste.

Edible parts: Ripe berries.

Season and habitat: Summer–fall. Chaparral, foothills.

Preparation: Eat fresh (mealy, mildly sweet) or grind into meal; classic as manzanita cider — soak crushed berries in cold water for a refreshing tart drink.