Eastern Teaberry, American Wintergreen, Checkerberry
gaultheria procumbens
Also known as: ["American Wintergreen","Checkerberry","Mountain Tea","Saxifraga"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to North America, known for its aromatic leaves and edible red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","edible fruits","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Gaultheria |
| Botanical Name: | Gaultheria procumbens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Acidic, well-draining soil with organic matter like peat moss or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 4–6 hours of filtered or morning sunlight; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a shaded spot indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is best; avoid direct afternoon sun; adjust based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
acidic, well-drained, peaty soil
pH: Acidic, ideally 4.5–6.0.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; amend with peat if needed.
Temperature
Cool temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates cooler conditions but not frost.
Keep cool in summer; protect from frost; adjust care seasonally.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; full establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, peat-based mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy cuttings; maintain humidity; provide warmth; be patient.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim leggy stems; remove dead or damaged branches.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or weak growth; encourages bushier growth and better berry production.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; remove dead growth; shape plant; sanitize after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for older plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or pine bark to improve acidity and drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move indoors in winter if temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute if liquid; avoid winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats are sensitive to methyl salicylate found in Gaultheria procumbens. Ingestion in large quantities can lead to salicylate poisoning, causing gastrointestinal and systemic issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe plant contains methyl salicylate, which can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Salicylates can cause gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, more serious systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicGaultheria procumbens, commonly known as Eastern teaberry or wintergreen, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant contains methyl salicylate, which is the active ingredient in wintergreen oil and is used in various medicinal and culinary applications.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gaultheria procumbens safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can the berries of Gaultheria procumbens be eaten?
A: Yes, the berries are edible and have a minty flavor.
Q: Does Gaultheria procumbens require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade and can tolerate shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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