kinnikinnick

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

characteristics

A low-growing evergreen shrub which often forms dense mats. Attractive, glossy, dark green leaves are spoon-shaped and leathery. Leaves become reddish-purple in the fall. Delicate tiny, white to pink, bell-shaped flowers occur in clusters. Later, bright red berries appear; remaining throughout fall and winter.

Also known as bearberry; yes bears are fond of the berries.

Slow growing.

42,400 seeds/pound; starts from seed, bare root, cutting

habitat

Rocky, sandy areas, woodlands, open areas.

uses

Fruit is eaten by songbirds and mammals. Foliage is browsed by deer.

Kinnikinnick is an Algonquin word meaning tobacco substitute.

North American aboriginals made a poultice for sores using stems and leaves.