Screeping Wintergreen P9(0.5L)

Creeping Wintergreen – Evergreen Shrub with Ornamental Fruits

Creeping wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), also known as wintergreen, is a lovely evergreen plant that impresses with its glossy leaves, decorative red fruits and low, spreading habit. It is an ideal choice for rock gardens, heaths and as a ground cover.

Key features of creeping wintergreen

• Habit and growth:
  It grows to a height of 10–15 cm, forming a dense, creeping carpet of dark green, glossy leaves. The plant covers larger areas perfectly.

• List:
  Evergreen, leathery, which turn purple in winter, adding color to the winter garden.

• Flowers and fruits:

  • Flowers: Small, bell-shaped, white or pinkish, they appear from July to August.
  • Fruit: Spherical, bright red berries linger on the plant throughout the winter, giving it a decorative character.

• Taste and use of fruit:
  The fruits have a menthol flavor and are edible. Mainly used in the production of essential oils and as an addition to teas and desserts.

Requirements and care

• Soil: Acidic, humus, moist, but well-drained. Ideal for heathlands.
• Position:
  • Preferably semi-shaded or shady, although it will also do well in sunny places, as long as the soil is constantly moist.
• Care:
  • Watering regularly, especially during dry periods.
  • Mulching the soil around the plant helps to keep the soil moist and acidic.

The use of creeping wintergreen

1. Ground cover: Ideal for covering larger areas, especially in shady gardens.
2. Heaths and rock gardens: It goes perfectly with heathers, rhododendrons and other acidophilic plants.
3. Decorative fruiting: Thanks to its red berries, it is a garden decoration from autumn to spring.
4. Winter garden: The fruits and purple leaves add color in the winter months.

Curiosity

Creeping wintergreen comes from North America, where its leaves and fruits were traditionally used by indigenous people to prepare medicinal infusions. Wintergreen oil is still a popular ingredient in cosmetics and natural medicine.

Plant Specification

• Flower pot: 0.5 liters
• Age: 2 years old
• Frost resistance: Yes