Gaultheria hispidula aka Creeping Wintergreen
Taxonomy
Common names
Creeping Wintergreen, Creeping Snowberry, Cancer WintergreenHow to care for Creeping Wintergreen
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Creeping Wintergreen, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Creeping Wintergreen should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Creeping Wintergreen loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Creeping Wintergreen requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Creeping Wintergreen will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Creeping Wintergreen plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Fertilizer
The Creeping Wintergreen is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.
Region of origin
Creeping Wintergreen’s native range is Northern N. America.
More info:
Wikipedia