American Wintergreen, Gaultheria procumbent

American Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) is a low-growing, evergreen shrub native to North America. It is admired for its glossy green leaves, bright red berries, and distinctive minty scent.

🌿 Overview of American Wintergreen

Scientific Name: Gaultheria procumbens

Common Names: American Wintergreen, Eastern Teaberry, Checkerberry, Boxberry

Family: Ericaceae (Heath family)

Native Range: Eastern North America, especially in woodland understories

🌱 Botanical Characteristics

Habit: Creeping groundcover, usually 4–6 inches tall

Leaves: Shiny, leathery, evergreen; release a wintergreen scent when crushed

Flowers: Small, bell-shaped, white to pale pink; bloom in late spring to summer

Fruit: Bright red berries (technically dry capsules) that persist into winter

Roots: Spreads slowly by rhizomes

🍓 Uses & Benefits

Edible: Berries and leaves are edible; traditionally used for tea

Flavoring: Source of natural oil of wintergreen (methyl salicylate), once used in candies, gum, and toothpaste

Medicinal: Historically used for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties (similar to aspirin)

Ornamental: Grown as a decorative groundcover for shade gardens

🌲 Growing Tips

Light: Partial to full shade

Soil: Acidic, moist, well-drained soils (like those in pine forests)

Water: Needs consistent moisture but not soggy soil

Hardiness: USDA zones 3–8

Companion Plants: Ferns, rhododendrons, mosses, and other woodland natives

⚠️ Notes

Caution with Oil: Pure oil of wintergreen is toxic in high doses due to its high salicylate content.

Wildlife: Berries are eaten by birds, deer, and other forest wildlife.

Sweet Pea, Lathyrus odoratus

Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus) is a charming annual vine known for its beautiful, butterfly-shaped blooms and delightful fragrance. Here's a quick overview:

🌸 Sweet Pea – Key Facts

Scientific Name: Lathyrus odoratus

Common Name: Sweet pea

Plant Type: Flowering annual vine

Family: Fabaceae (legume family)

Height: 3–8 ft (can climb with support)

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer (longer in cool climates)

Colors: Pink, purple, white, red, blue, and bi-colored

Fragrance: Many varieties are highly fragrant (especially heirlooms)

🌿 Growing Sweet Pea

Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours)

Soil: Rich, well-draining, slightly alkaline soil

Water: Regular watering; keep soil moist but not soggy

Support: Needs trellises or fences to climb

Planting Tip: Soak seeds overnight and plant in early spring or late fall in mild climates

🌺 Special Notes

Toxicity: Seeds and pods are toxic if ingested in quantity (not edible despite being in the pea family)

Companion Planting: Combines beautifully with roses, snapdragons, and other cottage garden favorites

Cut Flowers: Excellent for vases—pick regularly to encourage more blooms