Wikstroemia uva-ursi

photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr

Best practices for survivability and field observations

Many respondents said this is a tough, long lived, if slow growing species. Several noted its ability to persist in dry, hot areas, that it works well as a “low pedestrian barrier, a nice low-lying woody shrub, and a small hedge.” One noted its post-fire viability in which it remained largely unaffected despite being close (10 feet) to flames. One mentioned its ability to “handle dramatic environmental events (erosion, flood, fire to some degree).”  Its cultural uses are medicinal, in kapa making, and its ability to stun fishes.

Stressors and pests

Slow growing and somewhat susceptible to mites, and diseases if from cuttings. Does not tolerate wet conditions (thrips and mold such as phytophthora can be a problem). It can be negatively impacted by trampling and goats.

Availability and propagation

Commercially available in nurseries and easy to propagate via seed (most respondents mentioned this method) or cuttings.

Survey Results

For information about the survey, refer to our article: on Coastal Plants for Creating Green Breaks