BEARBERRY

also called Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), flowering, prostrate, evergreen shrubs, of the heath family (Ericaceae), occurring widely throughout North America in rocky and sandy woods and open areas. It has woody stems that are often 1.5-1.8 metres (5-6 feet) long. Roots develop from the stem joints, and the plant spreads, forming a broad, massive ground cover. The foliage turns bronzy in winter. The leaf margins are rolled and fringed with hairs. The flowers, which may be white, pink, or pink-tipped in colour, are in the shape of a narrow-mouthed bell. The berries are red.