Arctostaphylos alpinus
Arctostaphylos alpinus · Ericaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around arctostaphylos alpinus and prepare for winter.
ID card
- French name
- Alpine bearberry
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- April to June, small white or pink flowers
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-40 °C)
- Origin
- Alpine and arctic regions of Europe and northern Asia
- Soil type
- Acidic, well-drained, poor in nutrients
Care
Watering
Keep the soil slightly moist during the growing period, without excess water that would promote rot. In its natural mountain habitat, this species tolerates dry periods well. Reduce watering in winter.
Exposure
Choose a sunny to partially shaded location. This alpine plant appreciates good light and tolerates wind-exposed sites. It grows well in rock gardens or on slopes.
Soil Preparation
Loosen acidic soil rich in organic matter (peat, leaf mold) with excellent drainage. Add sand or gravel if the soil tends to retain water. Avoid calcareous soils absolutely.
Pruning
Light pruning is only necessary to maintain a compact shape. Prune after flowering or in late winter. Remove dead or weak branches to encourage branching.
Fertilizer
This alpine plant tolerates poor soils well. A modest application of heather plant fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would slow fruiting.
Diseases and Pests
Generally hardy, it may suffer from root rot if humidity is excessive. Watch for spider mites in dry cultivation. Good air circulation and optimal drainage prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Arctostaphylos alpinus produces small red berries greatly appreciated by birds and arctic mammals, which consume them eagerly. This species is considered a keystone species of the alpine and subarctic ecosystem, serving as vital food for wildlife during the cold months.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- CowberryVaccinium vitis-idaea
- Cross-leaved heathErica tetralix
- Bog rosemaryAndromeda polifolia
- BearberryArctostaphylos uva-ursi
- Strawberry treeArbutus unedo
- Tree HeathErica arborea
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.