bearberry
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Wood's Red'
Overview
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Wood's Red') is an amazing plant species. This evergreen shrub is a low-growing, hardy plant that features shiny red-brown bark, and small, round foliage which turns a deep red color in the fall and winter. Its small white flowers bloom in the spring, giving way to an abundance of edible deep red-orange berries. The leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicinal treatments for urinary tract and bladder health. Its exceptional drought tolerance, along with its stunning display of foliage and fruit, makes it an excellent choice for gardens in many climates.
Care Guide
Watering
Bearberry requires moderate waterings. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Use a container with adequate drainage so that excess water can drain away. In the absence of a pot with drainage holes, water lightly by dripping directly onto the base of the plant. Too much water can cause foliage to yellow or rot the plant. During the winter, water 2 to 3 times a week and in the summer, water 4 to 5 times a week.
Light
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Wood's Red') thrives in full sun to partial shade, with some afternoon shade for optimal growth. During the summer months, bearberry should receive 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In the winter, bearberry should receive at least 2 hours of direct sunlight during the day. Bearberry will tolerate partial shade but should not be planted in deep shade.
Soil
Sandy Loamy Rocky
Temperature
Hardiness zone 2-7.
Pruning
In general, Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Wood's Red') should be pruned in late winter to early spring. Pruning should be light, as Bearberry is a slow-growing plant and responds best to minimal pruning. If you do need to prune, you should only cut back any stems that have become too long or unshapely, as well as any dead or diseased branches. Try not to prune off more than 1-third of the total plant in a single pruning session, as shorter plants may become too weak and may not be able to withstand heavy pruning.
Propagation
Seed Propagation, Greenwood Cuttings, Hardwood Cuttings
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Birds.
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Fungal leaf spot, Galls, Root rot, Rust, Deer resistant, Drought resistant .
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow bearberry.
