Mountain Snowberry

Gaultheria depressa

Physical Characteristics

Gaultheria depressa is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Australia - Tasmania, to New Zealand.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked. Sweet and juicy but apt to become rather dry later in the season[173]. The fruit is about 8 - 15mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known