Kinnikinnik

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Kinnikinnik, also known as Bearberry is a ground-cover frequently found in all of the western states but is known to grow in the northeastern states as well.  Its leaves are evergreen, meaning they stay even through the winter.  They are leathery to the touch and often look and feel waxy.  In the winter the leaves can become a dark red color but typically do not fall of the steam. The urn-shaped flowers are white to pink, which turn to red berries.

 

The leaves and bark of the Bearberry plant are often smoked in a pipe and the berries are edible and can be used to treat bladder and kidney disorders. The bright red berries are edible for humans and the young leaves are good for tea.

 

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