Alpine Bearberry

Arctostaphylos alpina

Physical Characteristics

Arctostaphylos alpina is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 1 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

N. Europe, including Britain, N. Asia to Japan, west to Greenland and northern N. America..

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 62, 105]. Very juicy but slightly bitter[101]. Another report says that they are juicy but insipid[257]. The flavour is much improved by cooking[257]. Not as nice as many other wild fruits, but nor are they unpleasant[2]. The fruit is about 6 - 9mm in diameter[200, 266], it is not usually produced very freely[257].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Blood purifier Narcotic An infusion of the pounded plant has been used as an external wash in the treatment of rheumatism and general illnesses[257]. A decoction of the bark is used in the treatment of internal blood diseases[257]. The leaves are narcotic and have been smoked to cause intoxication[257].

Known Hazards

None known