Massachusetts Bearberry
Massachusetts Bearberry
A Native Evergreen Groundcover for Tough, Sandy Sites
Massachusetts Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts') is a rugged, low, evergreen native groundcover that thrives where lawns and most plants fail: hot, dry, sandy, lean slopes. Its trailing stems of small, glossy green leaves turn bronze in winter, dainty pink urn-shaped flowers appear in spring, and bright red berries follow to feed wildlife. Extremely cold-hardy, drought-tough, and deer-resistant, it's the perfect low-maintenance carpet for sunny banks and erosion-prone spots in Edina, Maple Grove, and Woodbury.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts' |
| Mature Size | 6–12 in tall, 2–4 ft spread |
| Hardiness Zone | Zone 2–6 (fully hardy across Minnesota) |
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Bloom Time | Spring (pink urn-shaped flowers) |
| Foliage | Glossy evergreen, bronze in winter |
| Soil | Lean, sandy, well-drained, acidic; very drought tolerant |
Landscape Uses
Use Massachusetts Bearberry as an evergreen groundcover on sunny slopes, sandy banks, and rock gardens, and for erosion control where little else grows. It pairs well with junipers and other tough natives, and its berries support birds and wildlife.
Best Time to Plant
Plant in spring or early fall. Bearberry can be slow to establish but is very long-lived once settled in.
How to Plant
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Set the crown level with the soil, backfill (avoid heavy, rich amendments), water in, and mulch lightly. It prefers lean, acidic, well-drained soil and resents wet feet.
Watering
First Year: Water deeply once a week to help it establish, but avoid soggy soil.
After Year One: Little supplemental water needed; it's highly drought tolerant.
Drip Irrigation: Use sparingly during establishment; avoid overwatering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a Minnesota native?
Yes, bearberry (kinnikinnick) is native to Minnesota and much of the northern hemisphere.
Does it stay green in winter?
Yes, it's evergreen, with leaves taking on a bronze tint through the cold months.
Will it grow in poor, sandy soil?
Yes, it actually prefers lean, sandy, well-drained sites and tolerates drought beautifully.
Is it deer resistant?
Yes, deer generally leave bearberry alone.
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Pair Massachusetts Bearberry with junipers, sedums, and other tough, sun-loving plants for a low-care, erosion-controlling planting.