Kinnikinnick Bearberry

The Kinnikinnick Bearberry is a broadleaf evergreen that provides color throughout the year and easily lives in challenging conditions. This plant goes by the scientific name Arctostaphylos uva-ursi and features tiny white blooms in the spring. The thick, leathery foliage is a bold green and develops into a reddish-bronze hue during the fall. Red berries offset the colorful foliage during the winter. 

This plant is an amazing groundcover that will spread out 4 to 6 feet wide. The Kinnikinnick Bearberry is a native plant that needs little attention once acclimated. The berries provide color and serve as a food source for birds and other animals during the winter. Grow the Kinnikinnick Bearberry as a perennial in zones 3 through 8.

Kinnikinnick Bearberry Care

Dry conditions are best for the Kinnikinnick Bearberry. Bearberry plants need one inch of water per week. The soil should be well-drained and acidic. Plant in full sun. This stunner can live in areas with some shade but expect the best results with lots of sunlight. Apply a balanced fertilizer once annually in the spring.

The Kinnikinnick Bearberry does not require much pruning, but you can shape it as needed during the early spring.

Kinnikinnick Bearberry Spacing

This evergreen shrub has a creeping growth habit, and while it grows up to 6 to 12 inches tall, it spreads 4 to 6 feet wide. Space plants 3 to 5 feet apart to create a dense, solid ground cover.

Kinnikinnick Bearberry Information