 |
|
Other cultivars/species:
G.
shallon, commonly known as Salal, is one of the most common
forest under storey shrubs in the Northwest US and typically
reaches 3-4 ft. tall and spreads over 3 ft. across. It also
produces and edible berry. Some other smaller species
include: G. fragrantissima, G. miqueliana, and
G. nummularioides minor |
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Extra notes
and interesting information:
Edible and
pleasant tasting berry can be enjoyed by people as well as
wildlife including grouse, partridge, and deer, making it a
great plant for natural habitat.
The oil of
the Wintergreen leaves and fruits can be distilled and applied
topically to be used for medicinal purposes.
The American
revolutionists used Wintergreen tea as one of their tea
substitutes while boycotting English tea!
A perfect
companion under and around taller, acid-loving shrubs and trees
like rhododendrons, azaleas, dogwood, and high bush blueberry.
In the
Pacific Northwest summer irrigation is important if plants are
to thrive. |
|
References:
Brenzel,
Kathleen Norris, Ed. 1995. Sunset Western Garden Book, 40th
Anniversary ed. Sunset Publishing Corporation, Menlo Park, CA.
MackKenzie, David S. 1997. Perennial Ground
Covers. Timber Press, Portland, OR
Michener, David & Sinton, Nan. 2001. Taylor’s
Guide to Ground Covers. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, MA
|
|
at
a glance:
Common Name:
Wintergreen,
Teaberry (common)
Plant type:
Evergreen shrub
(perennial ground cover)
Family:
Ericaceae
Height/Spread:
Low to the ground,
3-5 inches tall, indefinite-spreading mat with a creeping habit.
Leaves:
Tough, leathery, and
shiny dark green. Elliptic to narrowly oval at maturity reaching 2
in. long and 1.25 in. wide.
Flower:
Born during mid spring, small pinkish white flowers are followed by
scarlet berries.
Bloom Period:
Mid-spring
Disease/pests: No
significant problems
Conditions:
Thrives in moist, acid woodland conditions. Will tolerate more than
half sun, but with additional water. Prefers afternoon shade and cool
summers.
Natural Range:
Northeast America
Hardiness:
USDA zones 3-7
Location:
Upper Cover Garden. |
Complete
Index
