Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Ericaceae

Genus:

Arctous

Species:

Arctous alpina

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

apr, may

Bloom Colors:

White, Pink

Ground Cover:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Alaska, Maine, New Hampshire, Canada: British Columbia, Manitoba, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Ontario, Quebec, Yukon

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★☆☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Bee Keystone:

★★★★☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to alpine and subarctic regions

Germination Information