Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, commonly known as Bearberry or Kinnikinnick, is a hardy, low-growing evergreen groundcover prized for its glossy foliage, delicate pink flowers, and bright red berries. Native to northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, this versatile plant is an excellent choice for rock gardens, native plant gardens, groundcover plantings, slopes, coastal landscapes, and low-maintenance landscapes.
In spring, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi produces clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers ranging from white to soft pink. The blooms are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Following flowering, bright red berries develop and can persist into fall and winter, providing seasonal interest and a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.
Bearberry performs best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, acidic, sandy, or rocky soils. Once established, it is highly drought tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for water-wise landscapes and challenging sites. Its trailing growth habit allows it to spread across the ground, making it useful for erosion control, slopes, and areas where a low-growing evergreen groundcover is desired.
With its evergreen foliage, delicate bell-shaped flowers, colorful berries, and exceptional drought tolerance, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi is an excellent native-friendly groundcover for gardeners looking to add year-round texture, seasonal color, and ecological value to the landscape.