Description
Gaultheria procumbens, commonly known as wintergreen, is an evergreen shrub that is native to North America. This plant is prized for its glossy, green leaves and its attractive, bright red berries, which persist through the winter. Gaultheria procumbens is a low-growing plant that is easy to grow in acidic, well-draining soil in a part-shade to full-shade location. The plant’s leaves are aromatic and release a minty fragrance when crushed, making it a popular choice for use in aromatherapy. To create a harmonious planting scheme, consider pairing Gaultheria procumbens with some complementary companion plants. For example, the delicate pink flowers of Epimedium (barrenwort) can provide a beautiful contrast to the glossy, green leaves of wintergreen. The red stems of Cornus alba (red twig dogwood) can also provide a beautiful contrast and add visual interest to a planting scheme.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Checkerberry ‘Big Berry’
- Hardiness:Fully hardy
- How big will I get? Gaultheria procumbens ‘Big Berry’® can grow to a height of 0.2m and a spread of 1m.
- Did You Know That:The leaves of the wintergreen plant are often used in natural potpourri, and can provide a fresh and invigorating scent to any room?
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
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Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Gaultheria procumbens ‘Big Berry’® prefers moist but well-draining soil. This plant is not tolerant of alkaline soil, it requires either a neutral or acidic soil to grow.
Best Position
Gaultheria procumbens ‘Big Berry’® can handle either an exposed or a sheltered position and can cope with either full sun or partial shade.
Maintenance
Gaultheria procumbens ‘Big Berry’® is fairly low maintenance and doesn’t require any pruning.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Gaultheria procumbens ‘Big Berry’® is generally pest free, and it tends not to have problems with diseases.
