Gaultheria insipida — Suckering

Overview

Gaultheria insipida is a suckering shrubs in the genus Gaultheria, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Gaultheria insipida 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 insipida, called chichaja in Spanish, is a flowering shrub of the plant genus Gaultheria. The species is native to the Andes; specimens have been found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This semi-hardy shrub grows to a height of 1.8–2.4 m (5.9–7.9 ft). Its long, thin branches bear bright green leaves, which may grow up to 7.6 cm (3.0 in) long. Grow it in full shade and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy in most of the UK (RHS H5). It works well for 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. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gaultheria insipida

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 insipida 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 insipida

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 insipida?

Gaultheria insipida prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Gaultheria insipida need?

Gaultheria insipida 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.