Gaultheria Procumbens – Wintergreen – 4 Inch

Radiant Berries & Year-Round Evergreen Charm

Add a festive touch to your home and garden with the Wintergreen Plant (Gaultheria procumbens ‘Redwood’)—a compact, low-growing evergreen that delights all year long. Known for its glossy green leaves and bright red berries, this cheerful plant brings natural holiday charm indoors and out. In summer, tiny white, bell-shaped flowers appear, transforming into clusters of vivid berries that last through winter. Its resemblance to Christmas holly and resilience in cold climates make it a perfect choice for festive displays, woodland gardens, and evergreen groundcover.

Whether used in containers, borders, or as a native groundcover, Wintergreen thrives with minimal care and keeps its lush appearance even in snow. Enjoy its beauty through every season—and bring home a touch of holiday magic that lasts all year.

Plant Profile

• Botanical Name: Gaultheria procumbens ‘Redwood’
• Common Name(s): Wintergreen, Checkerberry, Eastern Teaberry
• Family: Ericaceae
• Native Range: Eastern North America—from Newfoundland and Manitoba south to Georgia and Alabama.

How to Care for Gaultheria Procumbens

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate
• Features: Native plant, evergreen, groundcover, attracts birds, winter interest, rock garden friendly
• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; tolerates partial to full shade
• Water: Keep soil evenly moist; drought-tolerant once established
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity preferred
• Temperature: Best under 80°F
• Pruning: Trim as needed to remove dead leaves or shape the plant
• Propagation: By division or semi-hardwood cuttings
• Pests: Naturally pest-resistant
• Mature Height: 4–6 inches tall
• Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets, but always use caution around children and animals
• Suggested Use: Groundcover, native planting, woodland and rock gardens, holiday décor
• Growing Zones: USDA Zones 3–8

Fun Fact: Wintergreen’s Sweet Secret

Wintergreen leaves naturally produce methyl salicylate—the source of the familiar minty aroma used in candies, teas, and toothpaste. This refreshing scent is one reason Gaultheria procumbens remains a favorite for both decorative and aromatic uses.

History & Heritage

Native to the eastern forests of North America, Wintergreen was cherished by Indigenous peoples and early settlers for its medicinal qualities and soothing oil. Beyond its healing history, today it’s admired for its glossy foliage, scarlet berries, and enduring beauty that adds natural elegance to every season.