Kinnikinnick
arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Also known as: ["Bearberry","Uva-ursi"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub with leathery leaves and small, pinkish-white flowers, native to the Northern Hemisphere.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Arctostaphylos |
| Botanical Name: | Arctostaphylos uva-ursi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or as a ground cover in cooler climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic, sandy loam with organic matter; ericaceous (acid-loving) soil mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years for older plants.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in cooler climates; partial shade in hot regions to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid hot afternoon sun; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, acidic to neutral soil (pH 4.5–7.0) with organic matter
pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain acidic pH; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 2–6; tolerates cold down to -40°F (-40°C); prefers cool summers (60–70°F / 15–21°C).
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in heat; mulch to insulate roots.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during spring and summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid fertilizing stressed plants; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; hardwood cuttings in late winter or early spring are most reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late winter to early spring while dormant; layering can be done anytime.
Environment
Cool (50–60°F / 10–15°C), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage; rooting hormone can aid success.
Hormone
Recommended for stem cuttings to improve rooting success.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of older stems; light shaping of new growth.
Pruning Plan
Maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage dense growth; prune after flowering or in late winter.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged wood; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if repotting.
Method
Use well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; ensure good drainage holes.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years if root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until soil is moist but not saturated; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, pine bark, or sand to improve drainage and acidity; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed growth or dieback in prolonged cold without snow cover.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; root systems can freeze in poorly insulated soil.
Solution: Apply a thick layer of mulch; plant in sheltered locations; avoid wet soil in freezing conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or scorched foliage in intense heat; reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before/after; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicArctostaphylos uva-ursi berries can be slightly toxic to cats if consumed in large amounts. The compounds arbutin and hydroquinone may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and other systemic effects. Cats are generally more sensitive to plant toxins, so even moderate ingestion could lead to adverse reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi can be mildly toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. The presence of arbutin and hydroquinone may lead to gastrointestinal upset and mild systemic effects. While the plant is not highly toxic, large amounts can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicArctostaphylos uva-ursi, commonly known as bearberry, contains arbutin and hydroquinone, which can be mildly toxic if consumed in large amounts. These compounds can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and have diuretic effects. The berries are generally considered safe in small quantities but can cause adverse effects when ingested excessively.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kinnikinnick suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and tolerance of poor, rocky soils.
Q: Does Kinnikinnick produce edible berries?
A: Yes, it produces small, red berries that are edible but often tart.
Q: How fast does Kinnikinnick spread?
A: It spreads moderately, forming dense mats over time, making it useful as a ground cover.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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