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.
