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Gaultheria procumbens 'Wintergreen' (4 Inch), commonly known as Wintergreen, is a versatile and attractive ground cover plant valued for its evergreen foliage, vibrant berries, and aromatic leaves. It provides year-round interest and works well in shaded or woodland gardens.
Description:
- Dimensions: Grows to a height of 6-8 inches with a spread of 12-18 inches.
- Sun Exposure: Thrives in full shade to partial shade, ideally receiving 3-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily.
- Water Requirements: Prefers well-drained, acidic soil and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in Zones 3-7.
- Bloom Time: Blooms in late spring to early summer, producing small, white or pink bell-shaped flowers. The main attraction is the evergreen foliage and bright red berries that persist through the winter.
- Pruning: Minimal pruning needed. Trim any dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and encourage dense growth.
How to Plant:
- Location: Ideal for garden beds, borders, or as a ground cover in shaded or partially shaded locations, especially in woodland gardens.
- Soil Preparation: Use well-draining, acidic soil. Amend with compost or peat moss if necessary to improve soil fertility and acidity.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for their mature spread and to ensure good coverage.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first growing season. Once established, water as needed to keep the soil evenly moist.
Fun Fact: Gaultheria procumbens, or Wintergreen, is known for its aromatic leaves that have been used traditionally in herbal remedies and for flavoring candies and gums. The plant's bright red berries are not only visually appealing but also add a splash of color to winter gardens. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round interest, making it an excellent choice for adding texture and color to shaded garden areas.