Gaultheria procumbens
Gaultheria procumbens is a highly decorative ground cover and a delightful plant to include in balcony planters. But above all, this plant is distinctly American. Curious to know why? Read on.
The name Gaultheria procumbens
Jean-François Gaultier (1708-1756) was a French physician and botanist who worked in Canada and studied the flora of North America. The renowned botanist Linnaeus named the genus after him in recognition of his contributions to botany.
‘Procumbens’ comes from the Latin word ‘procumbere’, meaning “to lie flat”, referring to the plant’s creeping growth habit.
Origin and medicinal uses
This species is native to North America, specifically the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. Gaultheria thrives in cool, moist, acidic soils typically found in forests. It grows particularly well under conifers in shade or partial shade.
Native Americans used the plant to treat various ailments including colds, headaches, stomach aches, chronic indigestion, kidney disorders, and rheumatism.
The leaves contain methyl salicylate, which has properties similar to aspirin.
American chewing gum
The berries and leaves of Gaultheria procumbens have a distinctive mint-like fragrance and flavour. (Rub a berry between your hands and you’ll immediately smell it.) In Canada and the northern United States, this characteristic is well known as ‘wintergreen’. It is used in traditional ice cream, added to tea, and was one of the first flavours used in commercial chewing gum due to its long-lasting refreshing taste.
Popular in Europe
The bright red berries and glossy leaves that persist throughout winter make this plant particularly popular. From the moment the berries appear, Gaultheria procumbens practically sells itself in many garden centres and florist shops.
Gaultheria procumbens is also widely used in autumn and winter in floral arrangements.
Care tips
Gaultheria procumbens belongs to the heath family (Ericaceae) and prefers acidic, well-drained soil in shade or partial shade.
It makes an excellent ground cover. Its year-round dense foliage helps suppress weeds.
- Acidic, well-drained soil
- Shade or partial shade
- Regular watering in dry periods
- Hardy down to -20°C
Published on: 12 December 2024