Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)
Care, watering, light and tips for Wintergreen on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Ericaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Wintergreen
Gaultheria procumbens, commonly known as Wintergreen, is a small, low-growing, creeping evergreen shrub native to North America. It is characterized by its glossy dark green leaves that turn reddish in winter, small bell-shaped white or pink flowers in summer, and vibrant red berries that persist through fall and winter, offering an attractive color contrast in shade gardens or as groundcover. Its foliage emits a distinctive minty scent when bruised.
Native range
Northeastern North America
Care tips
Prefers partial to full shade and acidic, well-drained, organic-rich soils. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, especially in summer. A common mistake is planting it in alkaline or dry soils, which can cause chlorosis and poor growth. Protect from strong winds and severe frosts in colder areas.
How to save a dying Wintergreen
- Warning signs
- Reddish/purplish leaves (cold/sun stress), dry tips (low humidity), wilting (lack of water/waterlogging).
- First aid
- Check substrate moisture. Move to partial shade if in direct sun. Mist leaves with soft water. Do not fertilize!
- What kills it
- Overheating substrate, low air humidity, or alkaline soil. Does NOT tolerate lime.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's hardy but needs acidic, cool soil. Avoid intense direct sun!