Gaultheria
Gaultheria spp. (incl. G. procumbens, G. shallon, G. mucronata)
Gaultheria is a genus of low-growing evergreen shrubs prized for their delicate nodding white or pink bell-shaped flowers, glossy foliage, and long-lasting ornamental berries in white, pink, red, or purple. It symbolizes endurance, protection, and the quiet beauty of the winter garden.
Ericaceae (Heath family)
Late spring to early summer (May–July); berries persist through autumn and winter
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Gaultheria holds a distinctive place in both North American Indigenous culture and the global floristry industry. The wintergreen scent of G. procumbens — familiar to generations through medicinal rubs and candy — connects it deeply to traditional healing practices and the aromatic memory of cold, frosty woodlands. In the floral trade, G. shallon (Salal) foliage from the Pacific Northwest has become one of the most widely used greens in bouquets and arrangements worldwide, its glossy, deep-green leaves providing the backbone of countless wedding and funeral flowers. This dual role — as a wild plant of healing and a cultivated plant of ceremony — gives Gaultheria a quietly powerful symbolic presence as a plant that endures, protects, and supports.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates full sun in cool, moist climates but prefers dappled woodland light
Water
Consistent moisture; does not tolerate drought or waterlogging; mulching helps retain soil moisture
Soil
Acidic (pH 4.5–5.5), Moist but well-drained, Peaty or humus-rich, Never alkaline or waterlogged
Expert Growing Tips
Plant exclusively in acidic, humus-rich, moist soil — alkaline soil causes rapid yellowing and decline
Use ericaceous compost for container growing
G. mucronata (Pernettya) produces the showiest berries but needs both male and female plants for fruiting
Mulch with pine bark or leaf mould to retain moisture and maintain soil acidity
Avoid planting near lime-rich paths or walls that can leach alkalinity into the soil
G. procumbens (Wintergreen) makes an excellent low, spreading ground cover for deep shade under conifers
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Evergreen ground cover in acidic woodland and shade gardens
- Winter garden interest — ornamental berries persist through the coldest months
- Heather and ericaceous garden plantings
- Container planting in ericaceous compost for patios and winter displays
- Companion planting with rhododendrons, azaleas, and pieris
- Floral industry — G. shallon (Salal) foliage is one of the most widely used florist greens worldwide
Traditional Uses
- Gaultheria procumbens (Wintergreen) is the natural source of methyl salicylate, the compound responsible for classic "wintergreen" flavor used in analgesic creams, candies, and chewing gum
- Native American peoples used Wintergreen leaves as a tea to treat headaches, fever, and pain — essentially an early natural aspirin-like remedy
- The leaves and berries of G. procumbens are edible and were used as a flavoring and mild pain reliever by Indigenous peoples of eastern North America
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Gaultheria
What is gaultheria commonly called?
Different Gaultheria species go by different names. Gaultheria procumbens is called Wintergreen, Checkerberry, or Teaberry. G. shallon is known as Salal. G. mucronata (formerly Pernettya) is called Prickly Heath. All share the characteristic urn-shaped flowers and ornamental berries typical of the genus.
What are gaultheria berries?
Gaultheria berries are the brightly colored, fleshy fruit that follow the flowers and often persist through autumn and winter. Depending on the species and cultivar, they range from pure white through pink, red, and deep purple. They are one of the most valued features of the plant for winter garden interest.
What does gaultheria symbolize?
Gaultheria symbolizes endurance, protection, and the quiet beauty that persists through the darkest season. Its ability to remain evergreen, flower, and fruit even in cold and shade makes it a powerful symbol of resilience and devotion that does not waver under difficult conditions.
What soil does gaultheria need?
Gaultheria requires acidic soil — ideally with a pH of 4.5–5.5. It will not thrive in alkaline or chalky conditions. Use ericaceous compost for containers and mulch with pine bark in the ground. It shares soil requirements with rhododendrons, azaleas, and heathers.
Is gaultheria edible?
The berries and leaves of Gaultheria procumbens (Wintergreen) are edible and safe to eat in modest quantities. The leaves have a distinctive minty, aromatic flavor from methyl salicylate — the same compound used in wintergreen-flavored products. The small red berries were eaten by Native American peoples and early settlers.
Does gaultheria grow in shade?
Yes — Gaultheria is one of the best shrubs for shaded gardens. It thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for planting beneath trees and in woodland gardens where few other flowering or berrying shrubs will perform well. In cool, moist climates it can also tolerate full sun.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Kalmia
Kalmia latifolia
Kalmia is a beautiful native evergreen shrub with distinctive cup-shaped pink and white flowers, symbolizing perseverance, ambition, and endurance in harsh conditions.
Ballota
Ballota pseudodictamnus
Ballota is a Mediterranean subshrub prized for its soft, silvery-grey foliage and architectural form. It symbolizes endurance, protection, and ancient wisdom, thriving in harsh, dry conditions.
Cactus (Prickly Pear)
Opuntia spp.
Cactus flowers, particularly those of Prickly Pear, produce stunning blooms in vibrant colors despite their spiny protection. These remarkable flowers symbolize endurance, protection, and the beauty that can emerge from life's most challenging circumstances.