Oso manzanita facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Oso manzanita |
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A. osoensis
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| Arctostaphylos osoensis P.V.Wells
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The Arctostaphylos osoensis, also known as the Oso manzanita, is a special type of manzanita plant. It is found only in one small area of San Luis Obispo County, California. This plant grows in just two known spots on the northern edge of the Los Osos Valley. Being "endemic" means it naturally lives only in this specific place and nowhere else in the world.
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What the Oso Manzanita Looks Like
The Oso manzanita is a spreading shrub. It can grow to be at least one meter (about 3 feet) tall. Some plants have even been seen growing over four meters (about 13 feet) tall! That's taller than a basketball hoop.
Leaves and Bark
The bark of this plant is grayish and looks like it's peeling or shredding. Its leaves are packed closely together. They are shiny and can be green or reddish. Each leaf is up to 3 centimeters (about 1.2 inches) long. They can have smooth edges or small teeth along the edges.
Flowers and Fruit
The flowers of the Oso manzanita grow in loose bunches. Each flower is shaped like a small urn, which is like a vase. They are about 6 millimeters (less than half an inch) long.
After the flowers, the plant grows a fruit called a drupe. This fruit is smooth and hairless. It is between 0.5 and one centimeter (about 0.2 to 0.4 inches) wide. Inside each fruit are several round seeds.
Where the Oso Manzanita Lives
This unique manzanita plant is found only in San Luis Obispo County, California. It grows in a specific area near the Los Osos Valley. Because it lives in such a small area, it is considered a very special and rare plant.
