Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts' - Common Bearberry
DESCRIPTION
Common BearberryArctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts'
Common Bearberry is an evergreen groundcover that is suited to sandy or other well-drained soils with an acidic pH. It can be a marvelous solution for a difficult site since it grows where few other plants are happy. Arctostaphylos is lovely draped over the edge of a wall or large rock. Its small green leaves have silver-grey backs and often appear to be edged in silver. 'Massachusetts' flowers and fruits abundantly and is a disease-resistant selection with smaller leaves than the species. Introduced by West Coast Growers, seed for this selection originated in Massachusetts.
BENEFITS
- Beautiful groundcover for difficult site
- Berries for birds and other wildlife
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies
- Host plant for a variety of butterflies
- An evergreen with three-season interest
- Salt and Wind Tolerant
NATIVE INFO
Native Range
Native to Europe, Asia and North America, in the US it is found in rocky or sandy soils in Northern and Western states.
Map Credit: The Biota of North America
Map Key: Green (native), Teal (native, adventive), Blue (present), Yellow (present & rare), Red (extinct)
INTERESTING FACTS
The specific epithet of uva-ursi means bear's grape in reference to the fact that bears like to eat the fruits of this species.
GROWING TIPS
Arctostaphylos uva ursi grows best in sandy or other well-drained soils that are acidic. Full sun or very slight shade is the best exposure. Bearberry prefers low fertility, so do not fertilize. Choose your site well because it does not like to be transplanted.
Mature Size: 6-10in. Tall x 3-6ft. Wide
Hardiness Zone: 2-6
Sun Exposure: Full to part sun
VIDEO
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Quick Tips for Choosing Plants:
- Planting a variety of native trees, shrubs, perennials and vines increases biodiversity and gives wildlife a source for food, cover and nesting
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- Try your best to buy plants that were grown locally, your independent garden center will be your best bet
- Think about ultimate height and width of the plant you choose, make sure it will fit the space you have for it when it's reached maturity
- Plant nectar plants in groups, to attract butterflies and other beneficial insects more easily
- Ask for help if you need it. Most garden centers either have a landscape designer on staff or they can give you a reference of a designer that is adept at native plant wildlife gardening. There will be upfront costs but they are small when compared to having to redo a landscape that wasn't what you really wanted
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Choosing the right plants for your garden can seem like a daunting task but we’re here to help. Our horticulturists have spent a considerable amount of time researching and writing our beautiful, American Beauties plant tags to help you be successful. First of all, when you see an American Beauties branded pot at your garden center you can be confident that the plant is native to your area and a responsible choice.
When you look at our tag you’ll find information about the plants natural habitat. That will give you a clue to how it will work in your backyard. For instance if the plant is naturally founded and moist, shade and you have full sun, it’s not the plant for you. The “Features” section gives you an overview or plant description so you’ll know what to expect. While the “Benefits” section talks about the plants strong suits and how the plant will benefit wildlife.
A Special Note About Exposure
Full sun: Prefers six or more hours of direct sunshine a day
Partial shade: Thrives in three to six hours of daily sunshine
Shade: Generally does well with less than three hours of sun per day. Having said that even shade loving plants will struggle in extremely deep shade.
DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCES
Best Plants for Bees - Double sided printout for download
Best Plants for Butterflies - Double sided printout for download