Bearberry
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Bearberry is a low-growing evergreen shrub native to the northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. It plays a significant role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture due to its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly in sandy, poor soils. As a ground cover, it provides habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and small mammals. In a food forest, Bearberry serves as a ground layer plant, offering protection to the soil and reducing weed competition. It thrives in acidic soils, often found in coniferous forests, and can be a valuable companion plant in such ecosystems. Historically, Bearberry has been used by Indigenous peoples for both medicinal and ceremonial purposes, and its leaves were traditionally used for smoking mixtures.
Growing Details
Bearberry prefers sandy, well-drained soils and full sun exposure. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve moisture retention. Mulching with pine needles can help maintain soil acidity and moisture. Companion plants include other acid-loving species like blueberries and rhododendrons. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in heavy clay soils. Harvest berries in late summer to early fall. Store dried berries in a cool, dark place for extended shelf
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Arctostaphylos uva-ursi</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to northern regions of North America,
applicable geo region: Boreal and temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The berries of Bearberry can be eaten raw or cooked, though they are not particularly flavorful. They are sometimes used in jams or as a survival food. The berries are available in late summer to early fall and can be dried for later use.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Bearberry leaves have been traditionally used in herbal medicine for their diuretic and astringent properties. They are commonly used to treat urinary tract infections and kidney-related issues. The leaves are typically harvested in the fall and dried for use in teas or tinctures. Caution is advised due to the presence of hydroquinone, which can be toxic in large doses.
health concerns: The leaves contain hydroquinone, which can be toxic in large doses. It is advisable to use Bearberry medicinally under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
other uses: Bearberry is used as an ornamental ground cover and for erosion control. Its leaves can also be used to produce a yellow dye.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Arctostaphylos uva-ursi</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
common names: Bearberry; Kinnikinnick; Mealberry
family: Ericaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Arctostaphylos
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.5 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / -40ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Low
hardness:
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
(3/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 25 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Slow
max height: 0.3 m
max width: 1.5 m
soil preference:
Light (Sandy)
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Bearberry prefers sandy, well-drained soils and full sun exposure. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve moisture retention. Mulching with pine needles can help maintain soil acidity and moisture. Companion plants include other acid-loving species like blueberries and rhododendrons. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in heavy clay soils. Harvest berries in late summer to early fall. Store dried berries in a cool, dark place for extended shelf
Potential Disturbances: Bearberry is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if grown in overly wet conditions. To manage pests naturally, encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel potential pests.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...