Plant Type

Broadleaf Evergreen, Shrub, Ground cover

 

Height Range

Under 1'

 

Flower Color

Pink

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Green, Red

 

Bark Color

Red

 

Fruit Color

Red

 

Fruit Season

Summer, Fall, Persistent

Sun

Half, Shade

 

Water

Low, Extra in Summer

 

Growth Rate

Moderate, Slow

 

Soil Type

Clay, Loam, Rocky

 

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers, Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Perennial Border, Shrub Border, Foundation, Walkways

 

Special Uses

Cut Flowers, Erosion Control, Naturalizing, Small Spaces

 

Attracts Wildlife

Birds

This evergreen bearberry has small, dark green, shiny leaves that tinge reddish over winter. Stems are red. Pale pink, urn-shaped flowers appear in late winter to early spring, and are followed by small, red berries. 6-8" high and 3-5' wide.

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.