Contents
Description
Salix uva-ursi, commonly known as bearberry, is a low-growing shrub that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It belongs to the family Salicaceae and is known for its medicinal properties. The plant has been used for centuries by various cultures to treat urinary tract infections, kidney diseases, and other ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
Appearance
Bearberry is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 30 cm in height. Its leaves are oval-shaped, leathery, and dark green in color. The plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers that are pink or white in color and bloom in the spring. The fruit of the plant is a red, berry-like drupe that persists through the winter.
Care Guide
Bearberry is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions, making it an ideal plant for rock gardens or other dry areas. Water the plant regularly during the first year after planting to establish its roots. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a general-purpose fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bearberry is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and rust if grown in humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Spider mites and aphids can occasionally infest the plant, but these pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Bearberry is native to North America, Europe, and Asia and is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. It prefers acidic, well-drained soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can bearberry be grown in containers?
A: Yes, bearberry can be grown in containers as long as the pot has good drainage.
Q: Can bearberry be used as a ground cover?
A: Yes, bearberry is often used as a ground cover in rock gardens or other dry areas.
Q: Is bearberry toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that bearberry is toxic to pets. However, it is always a good idea to keep pets away from any plant that they are not familiar with.
Q: Can bearberry be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, bearberry can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Salix herbacea
- Salix purpurea
- Salix repens
- Salix sericea
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation, and uses. Stipes Publishing L.L.C.
- Huxley, A., & Griffiths, M. (1992). The new Royal Horticultural Society dictionary of gardening. Macmillan.
- Moerman, D. E. (2010). Native American medicinal plants: an ethnobotanical dictionary. Timber Press.
