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Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Bearberry Evergreen shrub (1 Page of 5) The Arctostaphylos uva-ursi plant species is found in Britain. Northern N. America. N. Europe. N. Asia. It is a member of the Ericaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Bearberry. Some home gardeners know the variety as A. officinalis. Arbutus uva-ursi. Uva-ursi procumbens. Uva-ursi uva-ursi. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Common Name: Bearberry Family: Ericaceae Author: (L.)Spreng. Known Hazards: This plant is best not used by pregnant women since it can reduce the supply of blood to the foetus[172]. Mature Height: 0.1 Mature Width: 1 Habitat: Dry open woods, often on gravelly or sandy soils[212]. It is also found on sand dunes along the coast[212] and is also found on limestone in the European Alps.
Cultivation Notes: Requires a deep moist well-drained light or medium lime-free loam in sun or semi-shade[3, 11, 200]. One report says that this species succeeds in alkaline soils[182] (a rather surprising comment considering the general needs of the genus - it is more likely that the plant can grow on limestone so long as the soil remains acid[K]).Shade tolerant[31] but plants produce less fruit when they are grown in the shade[200]. Prefers a cool damp position.
A very ornamental plant, it is sometimes cultivated for its medicinal uses[1]. There are a number of named varieties developed for their ornamental interest[200]. The form 'Massachusetts' is an especially prostrate, free-flowering and free-fruiting form[183]. 'Anchor Bay', 'Point Reyes' and 'Vulcan's Peak' have all been mentioned as good groundcover forms[200].
This is one of the first plants to colonize bare and rocky ground and burnt over areas[155]. It is often an indicator of poor soils in the wild[212].
Plants resent root disturbance and should be placed in their final positions as soon as possible[11, 134].
Hybridizes with other members of this genus, especially A. columbiana.
For further Arctostaphylos uva-ursi gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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