Massachusetts kinnikinnick

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

This slow-growing evergreen shrub covers ground close to the soil. Its low habit suits an open area where the stems have room to spread.

Where to plant

Plant in full sun to partial shade, leaving room for lateral growth. A site with good air movement may help limit foliar disease.

Through the seasons

Small evergreen leaves may bronze in winter. Pale pink flowers are followed by orange-red to red fruit.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

West of the Cascades, kinnikinnick can encounter disease and pest difficulties. This selection has reported resistance to leaf gall and leaf spot, though resistance does not rule them out.

Soil, drainage & water

Choose well-drained soil and avoid persistently wet ground, which can favor root disease. Provide some summer irrigation when the soil dries.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Water at the soil level to keep leaves dry, and maintain air circulation around the spreading stems. Check for affected leaves during cool, wet weather.

Know what to look for

Common growing concerns.

Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.