Fragrant Wintergreen

Gaultheria fragrantissima

Physical Characteristics

Gaultheria fragrantissima is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. 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 full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - N. India to Sri Lanka and Malaya.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Tea Fruit - raw or cooked[105, 146, 183, 272]. The purplish-blue fruit is about 8mm in diameter[200]. Leaves - raw. Chewed[105] (to relieve thirst?). An essential oil obtained from the leaves is used as a flavouring[240, 243]. A tea is made from the leaves[177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Antiseptic Aromatic Carminative Stimulant Vermifuge The essential oil obtained from the leaves is antiseptic, aromatic, carminative and stimulant[240, 243]. It is used in the treatment of rheumatism, scabies and neuralgia[240, 243, 272]. It is also taken internally in the treatment of hook worms[243]. The juice of the leaves is used in the treatment of coughs[272]. Both the juice and the whole leaves are usd as an anthelmintic that is effective against hookworms[272]. The unripe fruits are chewed or made into a juice to treat stomach troubles[272].

Known Hazards

None known