If you’ve seen a low‑lying shrub with tiny white flowers and wondered what it is, chances are you’re looking at a trailing arbutus. This plant isn’t just pretty; it offers health benefits, easy gardening options, and even some culinary tricks.
Trailing arbutus (Arctostaphylos uva‑ursi) is a small evergreen shrub native to North America. It spreads close to the ground, making it perfect for rock gardens or borders. The leaves are leathery and dark green, while the berries turn red in late summer. Traditionally, people have used the plant’s leaves for tea and extracts because they contain compounds that can help with urinary health.
Getting a trailing arbutus started is pretty straightforward. Plant it in well‑drained soil—sand or gravel works best—and give it full sun to partial shade. Water it lightly at first; once the roots settle, the plant tolerates drought pretty well.
Avoid over‑watering because soggy soil can rot the roots. Prune only after flowering if you need to keep its shape tidy. A light trim in early spring removes dead stems and encourages fresh growth.
The most talked about benefit is its support for urinary tract health. The leaf extract contains arbutin, which turns into a mild antiseptic when your body processes it. People brew a tea from dried leaves or take capsules made from the plant.
Besides health, the berries are edible but tart—great for jams or sauces if you add some sugar. Some gardeners also use the foliage as natural mulch because it breaks down slowly and adds organic matter to the soil.
Can kids handle the plant? Yes, but supervise them around the berries since they’re very sour. The leaves are safe in moderate amounts, but high doses of arbutin can irritate the stomach.
Will it become invasive? In most regions it stays low‑key, spreading slowly via runners. If you live where it’s native, it won’t overrun your garden quickly.
Trailing arbutus is a low‑maintenance plant that gives back with health benefits and tasty fruit. Whether you’re new to gardening or just looking for a hardy ground cover, give it a try—you’ll see why it’s a favorite among backyard growers.
