This hardy native evergreen groundcover is valued for its year-round foliage, low-growing habit, and excellent performance in dry, well-drained soils. Bearberry is a dependable choice for difficult sites, offering both ornamental appeal and strong ecological benefits.

Glossy, dark green leaves form dense, trailing mats that provide consistent coverage throughout the year. In spring, small, urn-shaped white to pale pink flowers appear along the stems, followed by bright red berries that persist into fall and winter, adding subtle seasonal interest.

Well-suited for home gardens, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi performs best in full sun to part shade and prefers sandy or rocky, well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it an excellent option for erosion control, slopes, and naturalized plantings.

Why choose Arctostaphylos uva-ursi – Bearberry

Native evergreen groundcover: Provides year-round interest
Low-growing habit: Forms dense mats that suppress weeds
Tough performance: Thrives in dry, lean soils

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil needs: Dry to average, well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low; minimal care once established

Designs for your garden

Groundcover plantings: Ideal for slopes and open areas
Rock gardens: Performs well in sandy or rocky soils
Naturalized landscapes: Blends seamlessly into native plantings
Erosion control: Helps stabilize soil on banks and slopes

Ecological benefits

Native habitat value: Supports birds and pollinators
Wildlife food source: Berries provide seasonal nutrition
Soil protection: Reduces erosion and ground disturbance

Plant appearance may vary by season and growing conditions. All plants ship healthy with established root systems.