Manzanita is only a small shrub-like tree but it produces very durable and beautiful wood. Because of its unique qualities, manzanita branches and the wood is becoming highly prized for crafts, decorations, pet supplies and more.
Manzanita wood is very dense, hard and resists decay. The wood, and especially burls, are prized by artists and wood workers for its beautiful rich colors and brilliant grain patterns that come from this slow growing tree.
Manzanita branches are prized for their unusual appearance and shapes. Instead of growing a single straight trunk, the way most trees do, manzanita will usually start to fork close to the ground and end up growing into one big broad network of twisted branches. The bark is a smooth dark reddish color that also has its own unique patterns.
Manzanita branches are stiff and fork into distinct but unique patters that make very attractive structures. A small manzanita branch can resemble the structure of a large broad tree and are sometimes said to look like natural bonsai trees. These intricate and delicate looking structures are surprisingly very durable.
This makes a manzanita branch an attractive centerpiece or wedding tree. Some are left with the natural bark, some are sandblasted or peeled to expose the creamy white wood beneath, and some are painted. With its beautiful tree-like structure and stiff branches, manzanita is a very popular choice. The open structure and strength of the branches allow ornaments to be easily attached to individual branches.
Manzanita branches are gaining in popularity with pet owners. Bird owners love the material because it makes great bird perches and bird stands. Manzanita is non toxic and the wood and bark are chew resistant. This is good for chewing birds like parrots who are likely to chew softer woods apart. The shapes of the branches are usually quite irregular which give the birds a variety of surfaces which help to exercise their feet.
Aquarium and terrarium owners also like manzanita for aquarium driftwood. Manzanita wood, with its unique colors and shapes, are attractive and make great cover and hiding places for fish and other small animals. It also safe for both terrestrial and aquatic animals since it is inert, non toxic and resists decay.
In the western United States, especially Oregon and California, manzanita grows abundantly. Manzanita commonly grows in thick stands and competes with other important forest trees. Most manzanita branches and other manzanita products come from these thinning projects which enhance forest health.