Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Bearberry, Kinnikinnick

General

This species is a substrate-stabilizer that is often found in dune and understory environments. It is an excellent ground cover species, with attractive berries, flowers, and evergreen leaves. The fruit are an important food source to many types of wildlife. The flowers are attractive to native bees, butterflies, and moths.

Plant Description

Trailing, evergreen shrub, usually not more than 6 inches in height. Leaves are simple, alternate, and glabrous. Bell-shaped flowers range in color from white to purple. Fruits are bright to deep red drupes.

Height (ft)
0.5

Soil moisture
Low

Soil types
Coarse to Medium

Wetland indicator
UPL

Shade tolerance
Intermediate

Bloom color
White, Pink, Purple

Bloom period
May to June, occasionally October to November

Fall conspicuous
Yes

Anaerobic tolerance
None

Drought tolerance
High

Salinity tolerance
Medium

Self Pollinating?
Yes

Range

North from Maine to Alaska, south to Southern California, New Mexico, and Arizona. Not found in southeastern and southcentral United States.

Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]

Additional Information

According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, an infusion of the plant is mixed with grease and other animal materials used as a salve. The crushed leaves have been used in tea and berries eaten raw or in cooking. The crushed leaves also smoked as or with tobacco. A decoction of the leaves used for sprained backs.