Kinnickinnick

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

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Shrubs: Ornamental Shrub

Red Bearberry

Zone
2: -50° to -40°
Min. Temp
Frost Tolerant: 24°

This is a fine plant for cascading over the edge of a wall. It's a hardy, prostrate shrub with intricate branching that often forms mats up to 3 feet wide, by runners. Fragrant, white bell-shaped flowers tinged with pink are borne in May and followed later in the season by red berries. The common bearberry's stunning red stems are studded with small, glossy, evergreen leaves.

Appearance

Summer Foliage
Green
Fall Foliage
Green
Flower Color
Pink
Blooming Time
Late Spring - Late Summer
Habit
Mat
Height
4–6 ft
Spread
2–3 ft
Form
Single

Characteristics

Type
Native Selection
Safety
Non-toxic
Growth Rate
Slow
Tolerance/Resistance
Drought Tolerant
Attracts
Attracts Honeybees & Pollinators; Attracts Birds
Uses/Placement
Groundcover

Optimal Growing Conditions

Sun Exposure
Full Sun - Part Shade
Soil Texture
Well-Drained
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil Moisture
Dry to Average
Soil PH
Slightly Acidic: 6.0-6.5
PH Tolerance
Prefers slightly acidic soil
Soil Amendment(s)
Organic Matter Recommended
Fertilizer
Minimal Fertilizer Needed
Fertilizer Formula
Balanced Fertilizer
Fertilizer Timing
Early Spring
Micronutrients
Trace Minerals Beneficial

Care

Care Level
Very Low

Behavior and Propagation

Spreading
Aggressive Spreader
Propagation Method
Benefits from Pollinators
Propagation Licensing
Open propagation permitted
Division Timing
Rarely Needs Division