Creeping Snowberry

Gaultheria japonica

Physical Characteristics

Gaultheria japonica is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from August to September. 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). It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - central and northern Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw or cooked. Pleasantly acid and refreshing[3, 101], with a delicate flavour of wintergreen[183]. An agreeable sub-acid taste, similar to G. shallon[2, 11]. They can be made into delicious preserves[183]. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter[200]. Leaves - raw or cooked[207]. The leaves are used to make a tea[2, 95, 161, 257]. A mild flavour of wintergreen[183]. Said to be superior to china tea[207].

Medicinal Uses

Cancer The plant is said to remove the cancerous taint from the body[4]. An infusion of the leaves has been used as a tonic for a person who has overeaten[257].

Known Hazards

None known