About
Gaultheria procumbens, the checkerberry or eastern teaberry, is a dwarf, spreading, evergreen shrub to 15 cm, slowly colonising by underground stems, with rounded, leathery, aromatic leaves that turn reddish in winter. Small, bell-shaped, white or pinkish flowers in summer are followed by persistent, bright-scarlet berries to 10 mm. An excellent and ornamental ground-cover for a moist, peaty, acidic, partly shaded position.
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. They grow in moist, peaty, acidic conditions and are ornamental in flower and fruit.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, hedging, specimen planting.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
PruningPrune after flowering or in late winter for shape.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.