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Wintergreen
This native evergreen provides an outstanding groundcover for woodland gardens while producing aromatic edible berries. It also supports biodiversity in shaded forest ecosystems.
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Product information
Product
identification
identification
Common nameWintergreen
Latin nameGaultheria procumbens
FamilyEricaceae
TypeGroundcover
CyclePerennial
Quantity per packMinimum 150 seeds
Product
description
description
Sowing
guide
guide
Sowing periodSpring after cold stratification
Best time
Spring after the last frost
Sowing depthSurface sow
Spacing / density
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)
Germination temperature18 to 20 °C (64 to 68 °F)
Germination time10 to 20 days
Propagation
Rhizomes and seed
Growing
method
method
Surface sow the seeds after a period of cold stratification using an acidic, moist growing medium. Germination requires patience, consistent moisture, and filtered light. Choose a partially shaded location that closely resembles the cool conditions of Canadian coniferous forests. The soil should remain rich in acidic organic matter, well drained, and consistently cool. Once established, Wintergreen gradually forms an attractive evergreen carpet through rhizomes, making it one of the finest native groundcovers for woodland gardens and natural landscapes.
Soil
and care
and care
ExposurePartial shade
Soil
Acidic, peaty, nutrient-poor, cool to moist soil rich in organic matter and well drained.
Soil pH4.5 to 6.0
Watering
Keep the soil consistently cool and slightly moist. An organic woodland mulch helps conserve moisture and protects the shallow root system.
Fertilization
A light application of forest compost or leaf mold each spring is generally sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which may damage acid-loving woodland plants.
Care levelLow
In spring, remove damaged leaves and apply a thin layer of acidic organic matter such as leaf mold or forest compost. Keep the soil cool during summer with a woodland mulch and water during extended dry periods, especially in young plantings. In autumn, allow fallen leaves to enrich the soil naturally. Once established, Wintergreen requires very little maintenance.
Container
growing
growing
Recommended pot size
20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in)
Wintergreen grows well in wide containers filled with a highly acidic growing medium composed of peat moss and composted bark. This evergreen groundcover performs best in cool, shaded locations where it can gradually spread by rhizomes. Keep the soil consistently moist without waterlogging. Container growing is especially useful where native soils are alkaline, allowing better control of soil acidity.
Bloom,
harvest
and garden
harvest
and garden
Its aromatic evergreen foliage and bright red berries provide year-round ornamental interest. This native woodland species also enhances biodiversity in shaded forest gardens.
This native evergreen provides an outstanding groundcover for woodland gardens while producing aromatic edible berries. It also supports biodiversity in shaded forest ecosystems.
Garden use
In woodland gardens, Wintergreen forms an attractive evergreen carpet beneath acid-loving trees and shrubs. It pairs beautifully with ferns, Sheep Laurel, Labrador Tea, and other native woodland plants. Its bright red berries provide ornamental interest from autumn into winter. It is an outstanding groundcover for shaded rock gardens, woodland landscapes, and biodiversity-focused plantings.
Bloom period
Small white to pale pink flowers bloom in summer and are followed by highly ornamental bright red berries.
Flower colorWhite to pale pink
Foliage colorDark green
Harvest
Berries from autumn through winter
Fruiting
Bright red aromatic berries
Wildlife appealPollinators
Size
and facts
and facts
Height5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 in)
Spread30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 in)
Growth rateSlow
Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8
Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)
Foliage typeEvergreen
Papillonstrue
Insectes utilestrue
Planting
partners
partners
Good companions
Bunchberry, Labrador Tea, Sheep Laurel, Beech Fern
Avoid planting with
Lavender, Cotton Lavender, Rosemary, Sedum
Recipe
and inspiration
and inspiration
The leaves and berries release the unmistakable wintergreen aroma produced by naturally occurring methyl salicylate. The leaves have traditionally been used in moderation to prepare aromatic herbal teas, while the edible red berries add flavor to desserts, jellies, and handcrafted preserves. Today, Wintergreen is valued equally for its traditional culinary uses, evergreen beauty, and ecological importance in native woodland gardens.
Frequently asked questions
Wintergreen is best sown in spring after a period of cold stratification, which greatly improves germination.
Yes. The bright red berries are edible and have the characteristic wintergreen flavor traditionally associated with this native woodland plant.
Wintergreen requires acidic, organic-rich soil that remains consistently cool and moist, similar to the forest floor of coniferous woodlands.
Yes. Its low-growing rhizomatous habit gradually forms a dense evergreen carpet, making it one of the best native groundcovers for shaded woodland gardens.
Yes. Its flowers provide nectar for native pollinators, while the berries are eaten by certain birds and small mammals, contributing to woodland biodiversity.
The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.
