Kinnikinnik (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is a low-growing evergreen shrub.   It is also known as bearberry.    The trailing shrub can form a mat-like expanse over time.    The alternate leaves are roughly long-ovals with smooth edges.    In sunny weather, the leaves have a “shiny” surface.

Clusters of small pink urn-shaped drooping flowers form at the terminal ends of branches.

In summer, small red berries form.    They are edible and were used for traditional purposes, but caution is advised.

Kinnikinnik can be used in home gardens as an ornamental ground cover.    The plants are heat and drought tolerant and provide an evergreen planting on slopes and in rock gardens.

We have bearberry in our front garden in a prominent location. It requires little care and gives us a native plant to enjoy all year round.