The John Dourley manzanita is one of the most garden adapted manzanita cultivars for Inland Empire gardens. It grows into a small to medium size evergreen shrub that first develops for several years as a low spreading plant with a twisting branching habit. As it matures it forms a mounding shape, growing 3-4 ft. tall and 5-6 ft. across. New growth is bright orange-red; mature foliage becomes pale blue-green. Small clusters of deep pink flowers accent the plant in early spring, followed by colorful reddish berries that develop and persist on the branches for several months.
John Dourley manzanita is attractive at all stages of growth and age; young plants have a mat-like form and mature plants develop interesting branching and bark character. Avoid extremely hot and sunny afternoon areas when planting in valley and foothill areas. This cultivar can be grown on banks, in raised planters, along borders and in containers to show off its foliage, flower and fruit characteristics.