Gaultheria hispidula aka Creeping Wintergreen

Taxonomy

Gaultheria hispidula, also known as the creeping snowberry or moxie-plum, is a perennial ground-level vine belonging to the Ericaceae family. This fast-growing evergreen shrub is native to North America and thrives in shady positions with abundant sunlight, not more than 3 feet from a window. It produces small white edible berries with a pleasantly acid and refreshing taste, similar to wintergreen. The fruit and leaves can be eaten raw or cooked and can also be made into delicious preserves. The leaves are used to make a tea that has a mild flavor of wintergreen and is said to be superior to china tea. This super rare houseplant requires regular watering and a well-draining soil, and doesn't need added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. The plant fruits from August to September, and both its leaves and berries have a wintergreen scent and taste. The Micmaq tribes of Newfoundland refer to Gaultheria hispidula as Manna Teaberry.

Common names

Creeping Wintergreen, Creeping Snowberry, Cancer Wintergreen

How 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