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Ground cover Ericaceae

Edible native groundcovers

Wintergreen

Name: Wintergreen ( Gaultheria procumbens )
Brand: Akène
SKU: AKE-SEMENCES
Price: 4.99 CAD
Availability: OutOfStock

Gaultheria procumbens

Product code :

Native evergreen ground cover with aromatic leaves and red berries.

Quantity: About 150 seeds
Exposure: Partial shade
Life cycle: Perennial
Hardiness: Zone 3 to 8

Common nameWintergreen

FamilyEricaceae

GenusGaultheria

Speciesprocumbens

Cultivar

TypeGround cover

Botanical nameGaultheria procumbens

Reproducible seedsYes

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) is a native evergreen ground cover known for its aromatic dark green foliage, spreading habit, and small white-pink flowers followed by attractive red berries. This woodland plant keeps year-round interest thanks to its persistent leaves and distinctive wintergreen fragrance. Well adapted to Quebec forests, it brings a natural touch to shade gardens, cool rock gardens, and landscapes inspired by native woodland ecosystems.

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) prefers partial shade and acidic soils rich in organic matter, similar to coniferous forest conditions. Seeds require cold stratification and consistent moisture to encourage germination. This slow-growing perennial needs very little maintenance once established. A layer of leaf mulch or forest organic matter helps maintain soil moisture and preserve the conditions required by this acid-loving plant.

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) fits beautifully into woodland gardens, naturalized plantings, and pollinator-friendly areas. Its flowers support native bees while its red berries may provide interest for birds and small wildlife. The leaves and fruits have a characteristic wintergreen aroma appreciated in traditional preparations. Combined with bunchberry, Labrador tea, and ferns, it creates a durable forest-inspired landscape rich in biodiversity.

Sowing guide

It all startswith a seed.

Sowing depth

Surface sowing

Spacing / density

30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)

Germination temperature

18 to 20 °C

Germination time

Slow germination, generally 30 to 90 days after stratification

Sowing period

Spring after stratification

Propagation

Seeds and rhizomes

Cold stratification

Yes

Growing 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

The right care,at the right time.

Soil pH

4.5 to 6.0

Minimum temperature

-40 °C (-40 °F)

Care level

Low

Watering

Regular to keep soil moist

Soil type

Acidic, peaty, moist soil

Fertilization

Leaf compost or light forest compost

Moisture

Moderate; moist, acidic, humus-rich and well-drained soil

Seasonal care

Maintain moisture, add forest mulch, and remove damaged leaves.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

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 and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

10 cm

Width / spread

60 cm

Flower color

White pink

Foliage color

Dark green

Foliage type

Evergreen

Growth rate

Slow

Growth habit

Very low, creeping and mat-forming

Fragrance

Strong wintergreen fragrance when crushed

Bloom period

June to August

Fruiting

Aromatic red berries

Days to maturity

Slow growing; generally fruits after 2 to 3 years

Harvest

Berries from fall to winter

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Bunchberry, Labrador tea, sheep laurel, beech fern

Plants to avoid

Lavender, santolina, rosemary, sedum

Recipe idea

From the gardento your plate.

Edible parts

Ripe berries and leaves used very sparingly; avoid with salicylate sensitivity

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

Your questions,answered.

When should Wintergreen be sown?

Wintergreen is best sown in spring after a period of cold stratification, which greatly improves germination.

Are the berries edible?

Yes. The bright red berries are edible and have the characteristic wintergreen flavor traditionally associated with this native woodland plant.

What soil suits Wintergreen?

Wintergreen requires acidic, organic-rich soil that remains consistently cool and moist, similar to the forest floor of coniferous woodlands.

Can it be used as ground cover?

Yes. Its low-growing rhizomatous habit gradually forms a dense evergreen carpet, making it one of the best native groundcovers for shaded woodland gardens.

Does it attract wildlife?

Yes. Its flowers provide nectar for native pollinators, while the berries are eaten by certain birds and small mammals, contributing to woodland biodiversity.

Wildlife and pets