Massachusetts Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts')

Massachusetts Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts') is a prostrate evergreen shrub that forms a dense mat of small, lustrous rich green leaves. Foliage may take on bronze tones in winter.

Small, pale pink, bell-shaped flowers bloom in early spring, followed by attractive red berries that display in fall and winter. Its low, spreading habit suits groundcover plantings and garden edges.

Growing details

• Plant type: Evergreen shrub and groundcover
• Mature size: 0.5–1 foot tall and 4–6 feet wide
• Spacing: Approximately 5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 2–6
• Light: Full sun to part sun
• Soil: Poor, dry to average, well-drained acidic soil
• Flowers: Pale pink bells in early spring
• Fruit: Red berries in fall and winter
• Foliage: Evergreen green leaves that may bronze in winter
• Additional traits: Drought, salt, and poor-soil tolerance; resistance to leaf spot and leaf gall

Care and garden use

This low-maintenance shrub needs good drainage. Moist or wet soil can lead to root rot.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, edging, woodland gardens, naturalized landscapes, water-wise gardens, rock gardens, or containers. Pair with feather grass, catmint, or Mexican daisy for contrasting textures and flowers.

Image credits: Prides Corner, Arctostaphylos Massachusetts Hybrid; OSU Landscape Plants, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts'. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.