A. pungens is found in pockets all along the coastal mountain ranges in California  and pushes out east to Texas and Mexico  leading to one of its common names  Mexican manzanita.  This hardy shrub will take full sun in desert like conditions  but alternately thrives on dry slopes even on north facing hillsides.  The branches of this plant boast the gorgeous trademark shiny red bark  while gently tapered dark green leaves lend it its other common name  Pointleaf manzanita.  Pointleaf manzanita does well in difficult planting sites  withstanding wind  high elevations  and alkaline and serpentine soils.  Pointleaf manzanita can be found growing in clay  sand  and gravel  and needs little supplemental irrigation once established.  A. pungens is a great representation of classic manzanita shape  growing between 3 and 6 feet tall and almost as wide.  Pointleaf manzanita flowers in spring with white urn-shaped flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies.  A hardy evergreen shrub or small hedge for any neglected  wild spot in the garden  with especially handsome red bark.