Update (October 9, 2025):
Governor Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 581, designating the bigberry manzanita as California's State Shrub! This unique species is common across Los Padres National Forest and now joins other state symbols such as the coast redwood, giant sequoia, California poppy, California quail, and more.
Original Post:
Assembly Bill 581 has successfully passed the legislature and now awaits Governor Newsom’s signature. This ForestWatch-sponsored bill would designate the bigberry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) as California’s official State Shrub! The bigberry manzanita embodies the beauty, endurance, and ecological richness of California, making it deserving of a place among the state’s official symbols. We invite you to join us in this historic moment by urging Governor Newsom to sign the bill into law.
“As we confront growing environmental challenges, AB 581 offers a timely reminder of the strength and importance of native species in shaping a sustainable future.” – Ambassador Eleni Kounalakis (RET.)
Lieutenant Governor
A symbol of California’s Iconic Chaparral
When people think of the state’s ecosystems, they picture redwoods, beaches or deserts. But there is another, often overlooked ecosystem that defines much of the state’s landscape: chaparral. This shrubby terrain dominates the foothills and mountains of Southern California and is home to one of the most beautiful plants—the bigberry manzanita.
There are 108 types of manzanitas, most found only in California. Among them, the bigberry manzanita stands out due to its smooth red bark, lightly colored leaves, and large fruits, making it the most distinctive manzanita species. By designating the shrub, we shine a spotlight on this unique species and more importantly, the entire chaparral ecosystem.
Cultural and Ecological Significance
The bigberry manzanita produces the largest fruit of any manzanita species. Indigenous people have used these fruits in their traditional practices. Ecologically, the shrub thrives in harsh, dry conditions where other plants struggle, making it a pillar of the chaparral ecosystem.
One of the most unique characteristics of the bigberry manzanita is its relationship with fire, one that has developed over the past several million years. While the plant does not resprout after burning, its seeds require chemicals from smoke to germinate. This makes it perfectly suited for California’s Mediterranean climate and a symbol of resilience.
With the growing threats of climate change, altered fire regimes, and invasive species, even these well-adapted plants are threatened. By raising awareness and fostering education through AB 581, we can better protect this species and the habitat it supports.
Amidst good company
The bigberry manzanita would join several other iconic plants and animals that are formally recognized as state symbols, including the California poppy (state flower), California redwood (state tree), the California grizzly (state animal), California quail (state bird), California red-legged frog (state amphibian), California golden trout (state fish), and desert tortoise (state reptile), among others.
Help Make History!
The bill has flown through the legislature with bipartisan support in both chambers. Most recently, the Lieutenant Governor sent a letter urging the Governor to sign AB 581. We encourage you to join us in urging Governor Newsom to sign the bill into law.