SafePlants

Alpine Bearberry (Arctostaphylos alpina)

The alpine bearberry, scientifically known as Arctostaphylos alpina, is also commonly referred to as mountain bearberry or black bearberry. It is a dwarf shrub known for its adaptability to challenging environments.

Considerations for Pets

• Alpine bearberry is a low-growing shrub.

Considerations for Children

• Alpine bearberry produces berries, which are black or blue-black.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos alpina (L.) Spreng.
• Common Names: Alpine Bearberry, Mountain Bearberry, Black Bearberry
• Family: Ericaceae (Heather Family)
• Synonyms: Arbutus alpina L., Arctous alpina, Comarostaphylis polifolia

Distribution and Habitat

• The alpine bearberry thrives in high-elevation, boreal, and sub-Arctic regions.
• It can be found on alpine plateaus, including those in New England.
• Observed in old Scots Pine forests of Varrio Nature Reserve, Salla, Finland.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Arctostaphylos alpina is a procumbent (trailing) shrub, typically reaching 10-30 cm in height.
• It is a perennial, highly branched shrub.
• It has alternate, strongly veined leaves.
• Unlike the common bearberry, the alpine bearberry is deciduous; its toothed leaves turn bright red in autumn before withering and dying in the winter.
• It produces small, white, bell-shaped flowers very early in the year.
• The berries are black or blue-black.

Historical and Traditional Uses

• The Objibwa people traditionally used alpine bearberry. They pounded and infused it as an external wash for rheumatism. A decoction was also used.

Ecological Role

• In Washington state, it is listed as threatened and considered at risk from climate change and trampling by hikers.

Quirky Facts

• The name "bearberry" derives from the fact that bears are said to consume the fruit, although it's noted that they don't particularly "enjoy" it.
• Alpine bearberry produces berries that are said to be edible.