Undecided on what type of of branches to use for your centerpieces? Try our Sample Pack of sandblasted Manzanita and natural Red Manzanita branches and compare! Consists of one large box containing one piece of 18" tall natural red Manzanita and one piece of 18" sandblasted Manzanita.

• One piece of 18" tall natural, one piece of 18" tall sandblasted.
• View a manzanita size chart here.
• Please read the Manzanita Buyer's Guide before purchasing manzanita branches.

Every Manzanita branch is unique. The Manzanita photo for this product is a random example and is not the actual piece shipped.

Natural Branches: Consistently Inconsistent!

When purchasing natural branches such as Manzanita, Curly Willow and Birch, keep in mind that they are unlike other decorative branches used for floral design. Each one is an individual shape and sculpture, and may take on a variety of shapes and variations. Most professional centerpieces are created using several branches to achieve a full look, so always consider purchasing additional pieces or fillers. This needs to be a first consideration when purchasing your branches.

It's best to order your branches all at once. If you place an order today, and another order in a week, you will nearly always see a difference in the product. This is because the harvest areas change every 2-4 days, resulting in changes in the harvested product. No two harvests are ever the same.

Adapting Manzanita for Non-Centerpiece Use: Our branches are harvested specifically for centerpiece use, and our suppliers are instructed to harvest the most symmetrical pieces available. They are generally not suitable for hanging on a wall, or placing flat against a vertical surface. Symmetrical pieces must be CUT OR TRIMMED for other specific uses. We DO NOT GUARANTEE that any cutting or trimming techniques will adapt your branches for the intended use.

The following characteristics of manzanita branches are naturally occurring, and are a part of working with the material.

Characteristics of Sandblasted Manzanita:

• Shape: shapes vary with each piece, harvest area, and time of year.
• Branches: Sandblasting removes 20% to 30% of the smaller branches, all of the red bark, and a thin portion of the ivory colored wood underneath the bark. The branches are sparse as a result.
  
• Size: sizes are approximate and vary with each piece, harvest area, and time of year.
• Bark: the natural red bark is removed in the sandblasting process, leaving the ivory wood exposed. The ivory color may appear in different shades depending on the piece, harvest area, and time of year. Freshly sandblasted branches may have a bright honeydew shade, which is a remnant of the red bark, and dissipates to ivory usually within days. Brown or reddish grains and ribbons may or may not appear in each individual piece, depending on the particular characteristics of each piece. Make sure to store in a cool, dry place to avoid discoloration or mold which may occur in humid or damp conditions. Sandblasted branches are not treated with any paints or chemicals.
• Age: Manzanita branches last indefinitely. Cracks and splits will occur as the wood naturally cures, however this will not cause them to break in half, fall apart, etc.
• Leaves: leaves are mechanically or manually removed, depending on the current season, harvest or time of year.

Characteristics of Natural (red) Manzanita:

• Shape: shapes vary with each piece, harvest area, and time of year. Manzanita can typically grow wide and flat rather than symmetrically, although we try to always ship more symmetrical pieces..
• Branches: branches can vary greatly in diameter with each piece.
  
• Size: sizes are approximate and vary with each piece, harvest area, and time of year.
  
• Bark: color and condition of the bark will vary with each season, harvest area and time of year. Spring through Summer (six month period), Manzanita bark will regenerate and peeling will take place. To remove loose or peeling bark, use a soft brush. For stubborn areas, use a light wire brush. Some branches may turn a gray color, which is normal. If the entire branch or tree turns gray, please send us photos so that we can assist you with this. For peeling and gray areas, the best solution is to touch up with floral paint, such as Design Master's "October Brown" floral paint available at Michael's Crafts.
• Spring and Summer Harvest: Spring through Summer (six month period), Manzanita bark will regenerate and peeling will take place.
• Age: Manzanita branches will last indefinitely (we have centerpieces in our showroom that are several years old). Cracks and splits will occur as the wood naturally cures, however this will not cause them to break in half, fall apart, etc. Using the floral paint mentioned above to add color into the spliting areas makes them practically non-noticeable.
• Leaves: leaves are mechanically or manually removed, depending on the current season, harvest or time of year.