Gaultheria shallon aka Salal
Taxonomy
Gaultheria shallon, also known as salal or shallon, is an evergreen shrub found in western North America. It belongs to the heather family, Ericaceae, and has large, leathery, round to oval shaped leaves that are dull green, turning reddish in winter. The plant has spreading or erect, hairy stems and produces whitish to pale pink, urn-shaped flowers that hang along reddish or salmon racemes in upper leaf axils. In the Squamish language, the fruits are called t’áḵa7 and the bush is called t’áḵa7áy̓. Salal is commonly used by florists in flower arrangements because of its glossy green oval leaves, and it is found as an understory shrub at lower elevations. The plant produces clusters of drooping urn-shaped white-to-pinkish flowers in spring to early summer, which are followed by purple berries that are consumed by birds.
Common names
Salal, Shallon, Shallal, LemonleafHow to care for Salal
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Salal, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Salal should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Salal 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.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Salal 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 Salal 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.
Growth-pattern
Salal grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Salal’s native range is Western N. America - British Columbia to California. Occasionally naturalized in Britain.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Gaultheria Genus
Gaultheria insana
Gaultheria humifusa Alpine Wintergreen
Gaultheria procumbens Wintergreen
Gaultheria nummularioides
Gaultheria appressa
Gaultheria trichophylla
