Common
name: "Kinnikinnick" or
"Bearberry"
Latin name: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Zone: 2
- 6
Elevation to: 10,000'
Growth habit: Mat forming
Max height: 4" - 6"
Spread: 24" or more
Flowers: Yes, late summer Flower type: Native to area: Yes
Available varieties: 2
Sunshine:
Water:
Pictured
Perennial: Kinnikinnick
A.
uva-ursi 'Massachusetts'
Photo:
Missouri Botanical Gardens
Perennial
Cultivation:
Kinnikinnick is also commonly called Bearberry. It can be found
growing wild in the Colorado Rockies up to 10,000 feet in
elevation. Kinnikinnick has a long history of being used as a
medicinal plant. It is said that when collecting Bearberry, the leaves
should be picked in the morning after dew has
evaporated, and only during the months of September and October.
Once established Kinnikinnick spreads by crawling across the
ground with its woody stems rooting as the plant creeps along.
Over years the crawling stems can spread 10' to 15' under ideal
growing conditions. Kininikinnick foliage remains evergreen
throughout the winter and produces reddish berries during fall.
Plant Bearberry in full sun or partial shade in well drained acidic soil.
Propagation:
Kinnikinnick is difficult for the home gardener
to propagate. Purchase pre-started plants at your local Garden
Center.
