Skip to product information
1 of 2

Native Utah Plants

Kinnikinik

Kinnikinik

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Regular price $8.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $8.00 USD
Sale Sold out
Pot size

Kinnikinik (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is a resilient evergreen groundcover native to much of the north and Rocky Mountain west of the continent, including parts of Utah. Its trailing red stems and glossy, leathery leaves form dense mats that provide year-round interest, turning a purplish-bronze in winter. In spring, it produces small white to pink flowers, followed by bright red berries in late summer that persist into winter, offering food for birds and small mammals.

This plant thrives in well-drained soils and is quite drought-tolerant once established, especially in part-shade. It's an excellent choice for erosion control on slopes and rocky areas where other plants may struggle. While slower to establish, its low-maintenance nature and adaptability to full sun or partial shade make it a valuable staple to native and water-wise landscapes.

Plant Profile

Scientific name: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Duration: Perennial

Native region: Wasatch Mountains

Native elevation: 7000-11000 ft

Water requirement: Low

Drought tolerance: High

Light requirement: Full sun, Partial shade, and Shade

Shade tolerance: Medium

Mature size: 6-12" H by 60-120" W

Bloom time: May - June

Flower color: White and Pink

View full details