Gaultheria procumbens Checkerberry (Ericaceae) Evergreen shrub

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Gaultheria procumbens
Checkerberry
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Gaultheria procumbens plant species is found in Eastern N. America. Introduced and established on one site in Britain, in Scotland. It is a member of the Ericaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Checkerberry.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Gaultheria procumbens
Common Name:  Checkerberry
Family:  Ericaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  The pure distilled essential oil is toxic in large doses[222].

Mature Height:  0.15   Mature Width:  1

Habitat:  Sterile woods (poor acid soils) and clearings[43, 62]. Especially found beneath evergreen trees[213].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a moist but not boggy humus rich soil in shade or semi-shade[11, 182]. A peat and moisture loving species, it requires a lime-free soil[11, 182]. Succeeds in dry soils once it is well established and tolerates considerable drought[208]. Grows well under the thin shade of deciduous shrubs or evergreens[4, 11]. A very cold-hardy plant, tolerating temperatures down to about -35°c[160]. Plants can become invasive when growing in good conditions[182]. Some named forms have been developed for their ornamental value, 'Dart's Red Giant' has specially large berries[182]. All parts of the plant are aromatic, the bruised leaves having the scent of wintergreen[245]. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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