Manzanita
High in the northern California back country, in out of the way places, grows one of the more beautiful woods to be found anywhere.
The Manzanitas are are characterized by smooth red bark and stiff, twisting branches. Wonderfully ornamental, they are evergreen, highly drought-tolerant, have picturesque bark and attractive flowers and berries, and come in many sizes and growth patterns.
Manzanita branches are popular as decoration, due to their unique shape, color, and strength when dried.
The dead wood decays slowly and can last for many years, on and off the plant. Sunlight smoothes and bleaches manzanita to light grey or white. Because of this and the stunted growth of many species, manzanita is often collected in its more unusual shapes, giving it the nickname mountain driftwood.
Manzanita wood is also used as perches for parrots and other large pet birds. The branches of the larger species are extremely long-lasting for this purpose.
Above are examples of Manzanita in it’s native setting, the high hill country of Northern California. On the following pages are examples of harvested Manzanita available for purchase. These harvested branches are coveted by artists, wood workers, decorators, and parrot lovers everywhere.
Welcome to Manzanita
