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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.

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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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