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Kinnikinnick
Also known as: Kinnikinnik, Red bearberry, Mountain-box, Sandberry, Hog crawberry
Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is an intricately branching plant native to the Northern Hemisphere. This plant's blossoms have a sweet smell. The Latin name Arctostaphylos uva-ursi means 'grape of the bear,' referring to the plant's berries.
Scientific classification
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Perennial
Lifespan
90 cm to 1.8 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
1 mm
Flower Size
Red, Green, Burgundy
Fruit Color
White, Pink
Flower Color
Gray, Silver, Red
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
0 - 25 ℃
Ideal Temperature

Images of Kinnikinnick

Attributes of Kinnikinnick

Growth Rate
In Spring and Summer, kinnikinnick's development exhibits a moderate pace. This rate allows the plant to focus on producing rich, dark green foliage and resilience against drought and poor soil conditions. Integral to kinnikinnick's survival, such balanced speed enables it to grow strong without exhausting its resources.

Culture

Garden Use
Kinnikinnick is valued in ornamental horticulture for its showy blossoms, bright berries, and the appealing visual contrast of its red stems against evergreen leaves. This species is considered the ideal ornamental species for planting along the edge of a wall, where it will cascade downward.
Name Story
Kinnikinnick: The common name, kinnikinnick, is an Algonquin word meaning "smoking mixture". Native Americans and early pioneers smoked the dried uva-ursi leaves and bark alone or mixed with other herbs, tobacco or dried dogwood bark in pipes.
Bear's grape: The genus name of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi comes from the Greek words arctos meaning bear and staphyle meaning "bunch of grapes" in reference to the fruits which appear in grape-like clusters. Therefore, it is called the bear's grape.
Bearberry: In the wild, the fruits are commonly eaten by bears. The specific epithet, uva-ursi, comes from the Latin words uva meaning grape and ursus bear. This is reflected and has given it another common name, bearberry.
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Toxicity

Kinnikinnick is moderately toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Effects include gastrointestinal upset and lethargy. All parts of the plant are harmful. Immediate veterinary care is essential if symptoms occur to ensure the safety and health of the pets. Preventative measures should be taken to keep kinnikinnick out of reach from both cats and dogs.
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Quickly Identify Kinnikinnick

1
Bell-shaped, pink to white flowers in clusters
2
Teardrop leaves, color transition through seasons
3
Small, spherical red berries with smooth surface
4
Low-growing with dense, mat-like appearance
5
Striking showy red stems, slender and flexible
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Care Guide for Kinnikinnick

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
0 - 25 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Kinnikinnick prefers well-drained sandy soils and exhibits drought resistance, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks. As an evergreen groundcover, it thrives outdoors, necessitating awareness of local rainfall patterns to prevent overwatering and promote healthy growth.
Fertilize: For kinnikinnick, apply balanced or high nitrogen fertilizers in early spring to enhance growth and foliage density. Limit feeding to prevent root damage and adapt to low nutrients, reducing frequency with seasonal changes. An annual application may be sufficient, adhering to recommended fertilizer rates for optimal health.
Propagation: Kinnikinnick is best propagated through cuttings in spring or summer. It requires moderately careful handling, with success indicated by new growth and root formation. For optimal results, a well-draining soil mix is essential.
Repotting: Repot kinnikinnick every 2-3 years in early spring for optimal health. Use a shallow, wide container to accommodate its spreading roots. After repotting, provide moderate water and partial shade. Its hardiness ensures minimal post-repot care, making kinnikinnick an appealing choice for enthusiasts.
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