PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates harsh Arctic sunlight and cold winds
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water only during prolonged dry spells to avoid waterlogging
Temperature
Extremely cold-hardy; survives Arctic winters, thrives in cool summer temperatures
Characteristics
- Leaf: Tiny, linear evergreen leaves arranged in whorls; dark green to bluish-green
- Flower: Small bell-shaped pale pink to white flowers clustered at leaf axils
- Fruit: Round black edible berries ripening in late summer to autumn
- Stem: Slender woody trailing stems forming dense, spreading mats
Care Guide
Watering
Water occasionally during extended dry periods; avoid overwatering
Fertilization
Optional diluted organic feed once monthly if soil is nutrient-poor. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed eggshell powder on soil surface; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent potential burningPruning
- Trim overgrown trailing stems in early spring to maintain compact form
- Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Thin dense mats occasionally to promote new, healthy growth
- Prune after fruiting to encourage berry production the following year
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: No reported toxicity to cats per ASPCA
Humans: Ripe berries are edible; no known toxic effects for humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Edible berries for jams, jellies, and fresh eating; groundcover for erosion control in cold regions
