GAULTHERIA
<
>
GAULTHERIA
Commonly known as Box berry, Mountain tea, Prickly heath
(Formerly PERNETTYA) All flower MAY
Genus of about 170 species of evergreen shrubs, some rhizomatous, widely distributed in woodland and open, moist, rocky places in the Himalayas, eastern Asia, Australasia and North, Central and South America.
Wintergreen oil, from G. procumbens is the common flavouring for toothpaste and mouthwash (Listerine) and was well-known as a muscle rub.
Full Plant Details - Sun/Soil & other attributes
-
BerriesThese plants have berries.
-
Good to know
Female. Grow male and female plants together to ensure fruiting. -
Pests & Diseases
None -
Place of origin
Chile, Argentina -
Resistant to honey fungusThese plants have little or few problems with honey fungus.
-
EvergreenToothed, spine-tipped, glossy, dark green leaves to 2cm (¾in) long
-
White
-
Suitable for small gardens
-
Fully hardy
-
Denticulate
-
Elliptic
-
Oblong
-
Height
1.2m (4ft) -
Spread
1.2m (4ft)
-
Medium shrubTypically grow to around 4-6 feet in heightCompact, bushy, suckering shrub. Produces nodding, urn-shaped flowers followed by fruit to 1.5cm (½in) across
-
Pruning group 5
Suitable for: Evergreen shrubs that require minimal pruning.
Action: Trim or lightly cut back shoots that spoil symmetry. Deadhead regularly.
When: Annually after flowering.
-
Hardy - very cold winter
Hardy in all of UK and northern Europe. Plant can possibly withstand temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F) -
Autumn Seasonal Interest
-
Spring Seasonal Interest
-
Summer Seasonal Interest
-
Winter Seasonal Interest
-
Neutral to acid soilPeaty and moist
-
Partial shade
Tolerates full sun where soil is permanently moist -
Rabbit Resistant
-
Mature Size1.2m (4ft)
1.2m (4ft)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Gaultheria - Growing Guide
