Massachusetts Bearberry Plant – Arctostaphylos – Medicinal/Herbal – Quart Pot

An evergreen carpet of glossy, dark green leaves. Small, waxy, pinkish flowers. Brilliant red berries. Needs enriched garden soil. Appearance: Uva ursi grows as a vine or mat usually along open areas and down slopes. It has small leathery spoon shaped leaves that are attached to reddish barked stems. The flowers usually appear in the Spring. Flower growth process begins as small pinkish urns that mature into red berries that are sporadically located along the length of the stem. The dried, pulverized leaves are used as smoking tobacco by the Indians. A tea is also made from the dried leaves. Fruit becomes sweeter when cooked. Added to stews etc, it is a good source of carbohydrates. The fruit can also be used to make a cooling drink or used for preserves etc. It can be dried and stored for later use.