Plant Type

Broadleaf Evergreen, Shrub, Ground cover

 

Height Range

Under 1'

 

Flower Color

Pink, White

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Dark Green

 

Bark Color

Grey, Red

 

Fruit Color

Red

 

Fruit Season

Summer, Fall

Sun

Half, Shade

 

Water

Low

 

Growth Rate

Slow

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

 

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers

 

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Shrub Border, Foundation, With Rocks

 

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Filler, Mass Planting, Naturalizing

 

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Wildlife

This winter hardy, prostrate, slow-growing, evergreen shrub or ground cover will typically grow to 6 to 12" high and 3 to 6' wide. In the proper environment, bearberry can spread (by stem rooting) to cover a very large area of up to 15' in diameter. Reddish-gray, peeling bark and small, lustrous, dark green leaves which turn reddish brown in winter. Nodding white-tinged pink, heather-like flowers appear in April-May, followed by bright red fruits which last from August through the winter.

Grow in part to full shade, in average to poor, well-drained soils. Slow to established, and it is sensitive to being over-watered. Berries are valued by birds. Plant where it is protected from hot summer sun and drying winter winds. Does not need pruning other than to keep it within the space allotted. A popular western native, there are many cultivars that have been commercial developed, including 'Alaska,' Massachusetts,' 'Point Reyes,' and 'Woods Compact.' Berries are good for birds, but are not recommended for human consumption.