Arctostaphylos Radiant
Notify MeArctostaphylos Radiant is a compact, evergreen manzanita cultivar prized for its silvery-green foliage, striking red stems, and year-round structure. In late winter to early spring, it produces clusters of delicate, pale pink, urn-shaped flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators. Its tidy, mounding habit and drought tolerance make it an ideal groundcover or low hedge in dry, sunny locations.
Perfect for rock gardens, coastal plantings, and low-maintenance borders. Complements Mediterranean, native, and contemporary garden styles.
Thrives in full sun with sharply drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and does not tolerate wet feet. Space plants 1–1.5 metres apart when mass planting or for low screening.
Mature size: Forms a dense, rounded shrub approximately 60–90 cm tall and 1–1.2 metres wide.
Trimming: Minimal pruning is needed. Lightly shape after flowering if required, and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring. Avoid hard pruning into old wood, as recovery is slow.
Deadheading: Not necessary, but you may remove spent flowers to tidy the plant if desired.
Fertilising: Generally does not require feeding in well-prepared soils. If growth is weak, apply a light dose of low-phosphorus, balanced fertiliser in early spring. Avoid rich soils or excessive feeding, which can lead to lank growth.
Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase (first 1–2 years). Once established, Arctostaphylos ‘Radiant’ is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry, well-drained soils. Avoid overwatering.
Pest Control: Rarely troubled by pests. Occasionally, aphids or scale insects may appear—treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil if needed.
Disease Management: Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained conditions. Ensure excellent drainage and do not overwater. Maintain good airflow around the plant by avoiding overcrowding. Mulch lightly, keeping it away from the crown.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
