20 Bearberry, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, Seeds (Edible, Hardy Evergreen Ground Cover)

Other Names: Bearberry, Manzanita, Kinnilkinnick, Sandberry, Indian Tobacco

Zone: 2 to 6

Growth Rate: Slow growing, long lived

Plant Type: Low Growing Herbaceous perennial

Family: Ericaceae

Native Range: Northern regions of Europe, Asia and North America
Height: 0.5 to 1 foot
Spread: 3 to 6 feet
Shape: Evergreen groundcover

Bloom Time: April - May

Bloom Color: White with tinge of pink
Flower/Fruit: White to pink small, urn-shaped flowers followed by bright red edible fruits.

Sun: Full Sun to Part Shade

Fall Color: Evergreen to reddish in winter

Drought Tolerance: High

Water: Dry to medium
Maintenance: Low

Site Requirements /Soil Tolerances: Average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil. Salt tolerant. Does not like excessive summer heat.

Culture: Does not need pruning

Uses: Excellent, evergreen ground cover for year round interest. Good erosion protection for slopes and hillsides. Rock wall, let it cascade over the edge.





Sowing Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Seeds:

Bearberry seed need a warm spell then a cold spell in order to mature the embryo and reduce the seed coat.

For best results, please follow the instructions in the order provided.

Scarify: Pour Hot water over seed. Soak for 24 hours or Soak in sulfuric or nitric acid for 2-4 hours and wash under cold water for 10-15 minutes

Stratify: Warm 60 Days, then Cold 90 days, 40 Degrees F in a Moist Medium.

Germination: Sow 1/8” deep