Ericaceae: Heath Family — Other
The Heath family is mostly chaparral shrubs with alternate evergreen leaves. Examples are Arctostaphylos (Manzanita), Vaccinium (Huckleberrry), as well as trees, such as Arbutus (Madrone). All these have pendulous, bell- or urn-shaped flowers. The family also includes Rhodododendron and Azalea, with showy, funnel-shaped flowers. Most prefer acidic soil.
Salal – Gaultheria shallon
Blooms:
Apr–July
Plant Height:
0.2–2 m
Flower Size:
Medium cluster
Origin:
Native
Habitat:
Moist forest margins
Notes:
This is usually a medium sized, evergreen shrub. Smaller examples are often found, especially in Del Monte Forest. Its leaves are large (5–13 cm), broadly ovate to lanceolate, and finely serrate. Flowers are glandular-hairy, pinkish-white with a closed urn shape. Fruits are small, dark purple to black berries, said to be edible and an appetite suppressant.
California / Evergreen Huckleberry – Vaccinium ovatum
Blooms:
Mar–May
Plant Height:
0.5–3 m
Flower Size:
Medium cluster
Origin:
Native
Habitat:
Generally coniferous woodland
Notes:
A medium-sized evergreen shrub. This is easily recognized by its small (2–5 cm), ovate to lanceolate, dark green leaves with serrated margins. Flowers are glabrous, white to pink, with an open urn shape and recurved tips. Fruits are small black berries, delicious to eat.
