About
Gaultheria rudis is an evergreen Gaultheria shrub producing the characteristic leathery foliage, small bell-shaped flowers and persistent, fleshy, colourful berries of the genus. An ornamental shrub for a moist, peaty, partly shaded garden.
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.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSuckering
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants
Native toWestern N America
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Although the fruit is edible, this plant is generally grown for ornamental purposes in nurseries and not for edible use. 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
CultivationGrow in moist or dry acidic soils in shade or partial shade where it will make good groundcover. Can colonise when planted in the landscape, for example on heathland as game cover
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division of plants. Pot up with soil attached for best results
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