ARCTOSTAPHYLOS UVA-URSI / BEARBERRY

ARCTOSTAPHYLOS UVA-URSI / BEARBERRY

A Low-Growing Native Groundcover with Evergreen Foliage and Bright Berries

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, commonly known as Bearberry, is a hardy, low-growing native shrub valued for its glossy evergreen leaves, delicate white to pink bell-shaped flowers, and bright red berries. Blooming in late spring, the flowers attract pollinators, while the berries provide food for birds and wildlife in fall and winter. Bearberry thrives in full sun with well-drained, sandy or rocky soils, making it ideal for rock gardens, naturalized landscapes, and erosion control on slopes.

Why Choose Bearberry?

Evergreen & Decorative: Glossy foliage provides year-round interest.
Wildlife Friendly: Flowers attract pollinators; berries feed birds and small mammals.
Drought & Poor Soil Tolerant: Thrives in sandy, rocky, or nutrient-poor soils.
Low Maintenance: Slow-growing and adaptable, requiring minimal care once established.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Glossy dark green evergreen leaves.
Flower Color: Small, bell-shaped white to pink flowers in late spring.
Fruit: Bright red berries in late summer to fall.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 6–12 inches tall and spreads 3–6 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 2–7.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy, or rocky soils; tolerates poor conditions.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 6–12 inches tall, 3–6 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Low, mat-forming shrub; spreads via trailing stems.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 2–7.
Flowering: Late spring with small, bell-shaped flowers.
Fruit: Red berries in late summer to fall.

Ideal Uses:

Groundcover & Erosion Control: Excellent for stabilizing slopes, sandy sites, and rock gardens.
Wildlife & Pollinator Gardens: Supports bees, butterflies, birds, and small mammals.
Evergreen Interest: Adds year-round color and texture to gardens.
Naturalized & Low-Maintenance Landscapes: Perfect for naturalized, xeriscape, and low-care plantings.

Bearberry is a versatile and resilient native groundcover that combines evergreen foliage, attractive flowers, and wildlife benefits. Its low-growing, spreading habit makes it ideal for ornamental, functional, and naturalized landscapes alike.