Bearberry or Kinnikinnick

Mat-forming evergreen shrub growing up to 8 in. tall with clusters of pinkish-white bell shaped flowers, blooming March to October. Adapted to rocky, well-drained, low nitrogen soils; intolerant of moist, poorly drained soils; up to 12,000 ft. elevation. May form dense stands on coastal bluffs and prairies, forests, sand dunes, barren rocky outcrops, dry alpine meadows and coniferous forests; circumboreal. Foliage is lightly browsed by deer. Berries are eaten by birds, bears and small mammals, especially as emergency food during winter and early spring. Used extensively in landscaping as a low-growing, ornamental groundcover. Host plant of the Seaside hoary elfin butterfly.