Wintergreen
Gaultheria procumbens
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
6 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moist
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested in large quantities
The Story
Plant Bio
Gaultheria procumbens, commonly known as wintergreen, is a low-growing evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of small, white to pinkish flowers. It produces bright red berries that persist through winter. This species is notable for its aromatic leaves that release a wintergreen scent when crushed, and its berries are edible and often used to flavor candies and gum.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained, acidic soil
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Mist cuttings daily to encourage rooting
- Place in partial shade for optimal growth
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Transplant in early spring after last frost
Pro Tip
Use acidic, moist soil and provide partial shade for best growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Prune lightly after winter to shape
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
- Refrain from fertilizing with alkaline fertilizers
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Wintergreen questions
What zones can Wintergreen grow in?
Wintergreen is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Wintergreen deer resistant?
Yes — Wintergreen is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Wintergreen bloom?
Wintergreen typically blooms in summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Wintergreen need full sun?
Wintergreen does best in part shade.
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Grow Wintergreen with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
