About
A compact, evergreen shrub with a dense foliage of small, dark, spine-tipped leaves. Clusters of small white flowers are produced in late spring and early summer, followed by round, lilac-pink fruits to 10mm wide in autumn.
About the genus
Gaultheria are evergreen, often dioecious, shrubs with simple, leathery leaves and small, bell-shaped white or pink flowers, followed by long lasting fleshy fruits in various colours
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Suckering
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Coastal
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in acidic, naturally peaty soils in partial shade. Will tolerate full sun if soil is constantly moist. Requires a male plant nearby to produce berries
PruningPruning group 8 (evergreens); remove suckers to restrict spread
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Rooted suckers can be detached and potted up in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility