Gaultheria procumbens |
Native Region: Eastern North America
Zone Range: 04-09
Preferred Climate: Temperate
Harvest Date: Sunday 17 April, 2011
Seed count: 60-75
Description:
With so many common names it’s no surprise that this small ground hugging shrub has played an important role in the lives of humans. The berries are the original source of wintergreen flavouring, which has been used in teas, breath mints, candies and other confections for hundreds of years. The berries are also popularly used in a number of herbal concoctions and treatments.
Notes:
For all its uses and applications in the kitchens, apothecary’s shops and herbalists remedies, this is also an attractive plant for the garden. Rarely growing more than 15cm (6in) in height, and spreading slowly to cover large patches of ground, this evergreen shrub can be put to good use in many places in the garden. Preferring semi shade and woodland situations, these plants are nonetheless suited to a fairly wide range of conditions.
Cultivation:
Plant seed in containers in a coldframe in autumn or spring. cold stratification may improve germination if seed is planted in the spring. Grow on in any poor to moderate garden soil with reasonable drainage. For maximum freshness, please keep seed refrigerated in its original packaging until it is time to plant.
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