Arctostaphylos uva ursi 'Massachusetts'

Kinnickinnick Bearberry

A tough, low-growing evergreen groundcover selected for its cold hardiness, dense spreading habit, and excellent performance in northern climates. ‘Massachusetts’ bearberry features glossy green leaves, soft pink spring flowers, and bright red berries that persist into winter.

Key features



Width: 3–6 ft (spreading groundcover)



Height: 6–12 in (0.5–1 ft)



Flower color: Pale pink to white



Bloom time: Spring



Fruit: Red berries in late summer to winter



Foliage: Dark green, evergreen; may bronze in winter



Form: Prostrate, mat-forming



Life cycle: Evergreen shrub / groundcover



Growing conditions



Sun: Full sun to part shade



Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky; prefers acidic soils



Water: Low; very drought tolerant once established



Hardiness: USDA Zones 2–6



Landscape use



Groundcover on slopes and banks



Rock gardens



Native and woodland gardens



Erosion control



Low-maintenance landscapes



Notes



Excellent cold hardiness compared to many bearberry selections



Deer resistant



Fruits are attractive to birds and wildlife



Performs best with excellent drainage; dislikes heavy clay



Nitrogen-fixing associate (supports soil health in poor soils)

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

6-12"

Width

3-6'

Hardiness zones

2–6

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Summer

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Acidic, Sandy

Landscape use

Groundcover

Shape

Spreading, Wide Spreading

Bark

Exfoliating, Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No