Ericaceae
Gaultheria procumbens
Add instant seasonal charm to your outdoor space with American Wintergreen—an elegant, compact evergreen that stays neat and glossy while showcasing vivid red berries. Perfect for balcony planters, shaded entrances, and mixed patio arrangements. Simply provide acidic soil, gentle light, and consistent moisture for a premium look that lasts for weeks.
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: American Wintergreen
Botanical Name: Gaultheria procumbens
Former Name: Pernettya procumbens
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0397
Alternative Names:
Eastern teaberry
Checkerberry
Boxberry
Candleberry
Wintergreen
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Order: Ericales
Family: Ericaceae
Genus: Gaultheria
Species: G. procumbens
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to northeastern North America, from Newfoundland and Labrador through the eastern United States to the Appalachian Mountains. Common in woodlands, bogs, and acidic forest soils.
4. Visual Characteristics
Low-growing, spreading habit forming a mat-like groundcover. Leaves: glossy, dark green, ovate, evergreen. Flowers: small, white to pale pink, urn-shaped, appearing in spring. Fruit: bright red, round berries (6–8 mm diameter) persisting into winter.
5. Size & Dimensions
Height: 5–12 cm (2–5 in)
Spread: 30–60 cm (12–24 in)
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, 5–8 cm increase per year.
6. Light Requirements
Partial to full shade. Tolerates dappled sunlight; avoid prolonged direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
7. Watering Needs
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil begins to dry. Requires more frequent watering in containers and dry conditions.
8. Soil & Potting
Prefers acidic, well-draining soil (pH 4.5–6.5). Mix rich organic matter such as peat moss or pine bark. Good drainage essential to prevent root rot. Suitable for containers with ericaceous compost.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8. Tolerates temperatures down to –40 °C (–40 °F). Prefers cool to moderate climates with high humidity. Protect roots from extreme heat.
10. Fertilization
Apply a balanced, acid-loving plant fertilizer (e.g., rhododendron or azalea formula) in early spring. Repeat lightly in midsummer if growth is slow. Avoid over-fertilization.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Low maintenance. Remove dead or diseased foliage and spent berries as needed. Light pruning to maintain shape after flowering. Mulch annually to conserve moisture.
12. Growth & Propagation
Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, layering, or seed. Seed propagation is slow and may require cold stratification (2–3 months). Division of clumps in early spring is also effective.
13. Common Problems
Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Fungal leaf spots in humid conditions. Pests include vine weevil, scale insects, and slugs. Monitor for damage and treat accordingly.
14. Benefits & Uses
Ornamental groundcover in shaded borders, rock gardens, and container plantings. Berries are edible and have a wintergreen flavor used in teas and flavorings. Leaves contain methyl salicylate, used historically as an analgesic.
15. Toxicity & Safety
Contains methyl salicylate, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Berries are edible in moderation; avoid consumption by pets and children in large amounts. Topical use of oil should be diluted.
Gaultheria procumbens
Add instant seasonal charm to your outdoor space with American Wintergreen—an elegant, compact evergreen that stays neat and glossy while showcasing vivid red berries. Perfect for balcony planters, shaded entrances, and mixed patio arrangements. Simply provide acidic soil, gentle light, and consistent moisture for a premium look that lasts for weeks.
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: American Wintergreen
Botanical Name: Gaultheria procumbens
Former Name: Pernettya procumbens
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0397
Alternative Names:
Eastern teaberry
Checkerberry
Boxberry
Candleberry
Wintergreen
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Order: Ericales
Family: Ericaceae
Genus: Gaultheria
Species: G. procumbens
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to northeastern North America, from Newfoundland and Labrador through the eastern United States to the Appalachian Mountains. Common in woodlands, bogs, and acidic forest soils.
4. Visual Characteristics
Low-growing, spreading habit forming a mat-like groundcover. Leaves: glossy, dark green, ovate, evergreen. Flowers: small, white to pale pink, urn-shaped, appearing in spring. Fruit: bright red, round berries (6–8 mm diameter) persisting into winter.
5. Size & Dimensions
Height: 5–12 cm (2–5 in)
Spread: 30–60 cm (12–24 in)
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, 5–8 cm increase per year.
6. Light Requirements
Partial to full shade. Tolerates dappled sunlight; avoid prolonged direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
7. Watering Needs
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil begins to dry. Requires more frequent watering in containers and dry conditions.
8. Soil & Potting
Prefers acidic, well-draining soil (pH 4.5–6.5). Mix rich organic matter such as peat moss or pine bark. Good drainage essential to prevent root rot. Suitable for containers with ericaceous compost.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8. Tolerates temperatures down to –40 °C (–40 °F). Prefers cool to moderate climates with high humidity. Protect roots from extreme heat.
10. Fertilization
Apply a balanced, acid-loving plant fertilizer (e.g., rhododendron or azalea formula) in early spring. Repeat lightly in midsummer if growth is slow. Avoid over-fertilization.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Low maintenance. Remove dead or diseased foliage and spent berries as needed. Light pruning to maintain shape after flowering. Mulch annually to conserve moisture.
12. Growth & Propagation
Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, layering, or seed. Seed propagation is slow and may require cold stratification (2–3 months). Division of clumps in early spring is also effective.
13. Common Problems
Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Fungal leaf spots in humid conditions. Pests include vine weevil, scale insects, and slugs. Monitor for damage and treat accordingly.
14. Benefits & Uses
Ornamental groundcover in shaded borders, rock gardens, and container plantings. Berries are edible and have a wintergreen flavor used in teas and flavorings. Leaves contain methyl salicylate, used historically as an analgesic.
15. Toxicity & Safety
Contains methyl salicylate, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Berries are edible in moderation; avoid consumption by pets and children in large amounts. Topical use of oil should be diluted.