How to Grow Kinnikinnick
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Kinnikinnick
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
shrubKinnikinnick is a low-growing, evergreen ground cover native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It features small, leathery leaves and produces delicate pink or white flowers followed by bright red berries. This hardy, drought-tolerant shrub is excellent for erosion control and naturalizing in challenging locations.
When should you plant Kinnikinnick in your zone?
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Example Kinnikinnick timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Kinnikinnick
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Kinnikinnick
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Kinnikinnick dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-8, with best performance in cool to moderate climates
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Get my Kinnikinnick timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First yearYoung plants focus on root development with limited above-ground growth
Water consistently but allow soil to dry between waterings. Mulch lightly with sand or gravel. Avoid disturbing roots.
Vegetative Growth
Year 1-3Develops trailing stems with glossy, oval leaves; spreads horizontally across ground
Provide adequate spacing for spreading. Minimal pruning needed. Continue regular watering during dry periods.
Flowering
4-6 weeks in springSmall bell-shaped flowers appear in clusters, typically pink or white, with reddish tinges
Blooms in spring (April-May). Do not fertilize heavily as this reduces flowering. Ensure full sun exposure.
Fruiting
Summer through winterDevelops bright red (occasionally orange or yellow) round berries that persist into winter
Berries provide wildlife food and ornamental value. No special care needed during fruiting.
Dormancy
Winter monthsEvergreen foliage remains, but growth slows significantly in winter; leaves may darken
Minimal watering needed. No pruning required unless removing dead wood. Provide wind protection in harsh climates.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, remove affected leaves, apply fungicide if severe
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Increase humidity with misting, use neem oil spray, prune affected stems
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Remove affected foliage, spray with insecticidal soap, encourage natural predators
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Improve drainage immediately, reduce watering, remove affected plants, amend soil with sand and perlite
Uses
Urinary tract support
MedicinalHistorically used by Native Americans and in traditional medicine, kinnikinnick leaves contain arbutin, a compound that may support urinary tract health. Modern herbalists prepare leaf tea, though clinical evidence is limited. [source]
Food source for wildlife
WildlifeThe red berries are an important late-season food source for birds, bears, and other wildlife, making kinnikinnick invaluable for wildlife gardens and natural landscapes. [source]
Ground cover and erosion control
HouseholdExcellent for stabilizing slopes and poor soils where other plants won't grow. Used in xeriscaping, native plant gardens, and ecological restoration projects. [source]
Traditional beverage
CulinaryLeaves have been dried to create a traditional tea with a slightly astringent, earthy flavor. Some cultures used it as a smoking blend. [source]
Ornamental landscaping
CraftYear-round beauty with evergreen foliage, spring flowers, and persistent red berries makes it a prized ornamental in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and native plant landscapes. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Berries can be harvested in fall (August-October) when fully red by hand-picking. Some leave berries for wildlife. Historically, leaves were harvested and dried for tea. No heavy harvesting recommended as it may stress the plant.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The word 'kinnikinnick' comes from the Algonquian language and historically referred to a smoking mixture used by Native Americans, often containing the dried leaves of this plant.
- 🌱 Kinnikinnick has a remarkable ability to fix nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi, allowing it to thrive in nutrient-poor soils where few other plants can survive.
- 🌱 The bright red berries persist on the plant well into winter, providing a crucial food source for migrating birds and bears preparing for hibernation.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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