Emerald Carpet manzanita is an evergreen groundcover.  It is a hybrid between Arctostaphylos uva-ursi and Arctostaphylos nummularia. Emerald carpet is drought tolerant but tolerates garden water well and is popular in commercial landscaping. Its shiny dark green leaves  and red stems are complimented by cluster of white flowers in January and February  possibly earlier. Plant in full sun on the coast and provide some partial or light shade inland. This manzanita likes a rich  well- draining and acidic soil to look its best.Emerald Carpet Manzanita was introduced by Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden in 1974.