Mountain Checkerberry, Western teaberry

Gaultheria ovatifolia

Physical Characteristics

Gaultheria ovatifolia is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to August. 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

Western N. America - British Columbia to California.

Habitats

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

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[3, 62, 183]. Spicy and delicious[11]. The fruit is up to 6mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known