Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi ‘Vancouver Jade’
Kinnickinnick, Bearberry

- Family
- Ericaceae
- Height
- 6 to 12 inches
- Width
- 3 to 6 feet
- Flower color
- Urn-shaped flowers are pink or white
- Foliage color
- Evergreen leaves are small, elliptical, and dark green, turning bronze or red in winter
- Bloom time
- Spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Low
- Maintenance
- Low
- Growing zone
- USDA Hardiness Zones 2 to 7
- Wildlife
- Berries attract birds
About this plant
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Vancouver Jade' is a compact, evergreen groundcover highly valued for its glossy, dark green foliage and its ability to effectively spread and fill in spaces. Forming a dense, mat-like habit, it is an excellent choice for erosion control on slopes or covering large areas under trees. 'Vancouver Jade' features glossy, dark green leaves that turn purplish in winter, complemented by delicate, urn-shaped pink or white flowers in spring. Thriving in full sun to part shade, this groundcover requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, but is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Low maintenance, it benefits from occasional pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches. It attracts pollinators with its flowers, while its berries are enjoyed by birds and other wildlife. However, care should be taken as all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested in large quantities, making it important to plant in areas not frequented by pets or children.
Works well in
Coastal Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Deer-Prone Areas · Rock Gardens
Companion plants
Heathers · Dwarf conifers · Salal · Oregon grapes · Sedums · Creeping phlox
Design tip
Define the edges of pathways or planting beds with this evergreen groundcover to create a clean, finished appearance throughout the year. Its dense growth forms a living border that blends naturally into nearby shrubs, boulders, and woodland plantings.
