Q: How big does Monterey Carpet Manzanita get?
A: It is a low, prostrate ground cover, typically reaching only 1-2 feet in height . Its spread is very slow but will eventually reach 4-8 feet wide, and over many years can spread up to 10-12 feet .
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions?
A: It performs best near the coast in full sun . In inland areas, it requires protection from hot afternoon sun, preferring morning sun only . It needs well-drained, acidic soil (sand, loam) and is adapted to sandy coastal conditions . It is not recommended for heavy clay or hot, dry inland valleys .
Q: How much water does it need?
A: Once established, it is very to extremely drought-tolerant, requiring little to no supplemental summer water . In coastal climates, natural rainfall is often sufficient. Overwatering should be avoided.
Q: Is it a good choice for inland gardens?
A: It is not the best choice for hot, inland gardens. It is much less vigorous in hotter, drier climates than in its preferred cool, coastal environment . For inland areas, other ground cover manzanitas like 'Emerald Carpet' or 'Wayside' are better options .
Q: Is it deer resistant?
A: While manzanitas are generally considered deer resistant, 'Monterey Carpet' is a low-growing plant that could still be browsed. However, it is not a preferred food source for deer .