Overview
Gaultheria erecta is a suckering shrubs in the genus Gaultheria, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Gaultheria erecta grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, rock garden, city and courtyard gardens, patio and container plants, low maintenance, flower borders and beds and banks and slopes.
About
Gaultheria erecta is an evergreen, suckering shrub belonging to the Ericaceae family. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils ranging from clay to sand and prefers acid to neutral pH. This hardy plant (H5) is suitable for full or partial shade and can be grown in various garden settings, including rock gardens, patios, and informal borders. Its simple, leathery foliage and small bell-shaped flowers, typical of the Gaultheria genus, add interest through the winter season. It can be propagated by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gaultheria
- Sunlight
- Full shade, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Gaultheria erecta size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Suckering
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds, Banks and slopes
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gaultheria erecta
- Propagation
- Seed, Semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Gaultheria erecta?
Gaultheria erecta prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Gaultheria erecta need?
Gaultheria erecta is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Gaultheria erecta hardy in the UK?
Gaultheria erecta has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Gaultheria erecta?
Seed, Semi-hardwood cuttings.
More in the Gaultheria genus
- Gaultheria adenothrix
- Gaultheria crassa
- Gaultheria depressa
- Gaultheria hispidulacreeping snowberry
- Gaultheria humifusaalpine wintergreen
- Gaultheria ovatifolia
- Gaultheria parvula 'Ohau'
- Gaultheria procumbens 'Dart's Red Giant'
