Bearberry Plant Care
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng.
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi is a plant species of the genus Arctostaphylos widely distributed across circumboreal regions of the subarctic Northern Hemisphere. Kinnikinnick is a common name in Canada and the United States.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–80°F
40–60%
What Is the Bearberry?
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) belongs to the Ericaceae family within the Arctostaphylos genus. Bearberry is also known as Kinnikinnick, Uva Ursi, Arctostaphylos.
Bearberry displays a low spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 6 inches. Bearberry produces small bell-shaped white or pink flowers in clusters.
Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Bearberry?
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Bearberry Need?
Bearberry thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Bearberry in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Bearberry Prefer?
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Bearberry prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
50–80°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Bearberry?
Well-draining acidic soil mix with high organic content, such as peat moss and pine bark. Good drainage is essential for Bearberry to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Bearberry?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Bearberry?
Bearberry can be propagated through seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings.
Fertilizing
Every 8 months
During the growing season
Is the Bearberry Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Bearberry?
Bearberry is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, root rot. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Bearberry Need?
Bearberry grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. In cooler regions, grow Bearberry as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Bearberry is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Arctostaphylos genus — compare its care with other Arctostaphylos species on PlantoScan.
Bearberry tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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