Kinnikinnick
Kinnikinnick is a very low-growing native shrub that grows naturally in ponderosa pine forest openings. The dark green, shiny leaves are small and spoon-shaped, forming a beautiful, dense mat.
The tiny pink flowers that appear in spring turn into a mealy red berry that attracts birds.
It can be quite drought tolerant. It also grows well under ponderosa pines if it receive some sun. Kinnikinnik is an excellent choice for foothill landscapes with decomposed granite soil.
Look for the Colorado native species when purchasing plants.
Kinnikinnick
Kinnikinnick is a very low-growing native shrub that grows naturally in ponderosa pine forest openings. The dark green, shiny leaves are small and spoon-shaped, forming a beautiful, dense mat.
The tiny pink flowers that appear in spring turn into a mealy red berry that attracts birds.
It can be quite drought tolerant. It also grows well under ponderosa pines if it receive some sun. Kinnikinnik is an excellent choice for foothill landscapes with decomposed granite soil.
Look for the Colorado native species when purchasing plants.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Pronunciation
ark-toh-STAF-ih-los OO-va UR-see
Mature Height
4 to 6 in.
Mature Spread
2 to 6 ft.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
soft pink blooms in spring, red fruits in late summer
Bloom time
early spring
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
Europe, northern Asia, North America
Light Requirements
sun to shade
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 2-6
Elevation Limit
hardy to 10,000 ft.
Performance
Kinnikinnick can be a little difficult to transplant successfully, and is slow to spread.
At the Water Wise Demonstration Garden, kinnikinnick has grown well in both low and moderate water zones. Those planted in the moderate water zone have spread more quickly than those in the low water zone. Plants with partial shade and some wind protection have performed the best.
It may be hard to find the native species for sale at a plant nursery, but it is worth the effort. It can make a durable, maintenance-free groundcover once established.
Maintenance
No maintenance is needed.