Manzanita berries were an important food source and the berries could be ground to make an infusion. The seeds could be used for flour (Clarke, p. 55). Leaves were used to treat skin ailments (Strike, p. 17-18). 

Calscape lists 192 species of Manzanita that are endemic to California. You can use this link to find species that are endemic to your area and growing information. 

Manzanita species support a variety of bird and insect species and are deer resistant.