Manzanita flowers.
Manzanita is flowering at the moment. The Chumash Indians ate manzanita berries or fruits by preparing them in a variety of different ways and other Native Americans used the leaves for medicinal purposes. The wood was used by some to smoke fish.
The fragrant flowers can be gathered and soaked in water overnight to make a sweet tasting infusion. While the flowers themselves have an astringent, mouth drying taste, Mazanita infused water has a pleasant, delicate floral flavor.
Related Posts:
Holly-leaved Cherries, Eating Fire Roasted Yucca, Oyster Mushrooms, Los Padres Tree Lobster, Giant Puffball Mushrooms, Chanterelle Mushrooms
Jack Elliott's Santa Barbara Adventure 
Jack, you forgot that every bird cage, in the ’50 and ’60s had a Manzanita Branch in it, for the Parakeets to stand on.
When I was younger I had few birds and an aviary and I use manzanita for perches.
Jack I am sure enjoying your blogs, thank you.
Hey John. Glad to hear that. Thanks for stopping by.
Thanks, Jack. Can’t wait to try that. FYI for your readers: Several species or varieties of Manzanita are on federal threatened, endangered, or sensitive plant lists partly as a result of overharvesting of the beautiful hardwood for perches, lampstands, etc. Seven local species are on the Sensitive Plant list. Others are abundant to the point of crowding out other plants. Many National Forests have clearly defined rules for personal harvesting which allow for small quantities of berries, seeds, flowers, etc. for personal use. Unfortunately, the Los Padres does not have an official policy so best to exercise caution and good sense when removing anything from the forest. When in doubt, “take only photos, leave only footprints.”
Thanks Lanny. Good info and advice.
Innteresting read