Gaultheria mucronata
prickly heath
A bushy evergreen shrub with small, sharply pointed dark green leaves and tiny nodding, bell-shaped white flowers followed, on pollinated female plants, by showy red, white, or pink berries
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Pink Red White | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Suckering
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Gaultheria are evergreen, often dioecious, shrubs with simple, leathery leaves and small, bell-shaped white or pink flowers, followed by long lasting fleshy fruits in various colours
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Chile, Argentina
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows well in acidic, naturally peaty soils in partial shade. Will tolerate full sun if soil is constantly moist. Remove suckers to restrict growth. Requires a male plant nearby to produce berries
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Rooted suckers can be detached and potted up in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Rock garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility
Get involved
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