~Wintergreen~

Glossy, evergreen leaves that acquire red tints in winter.  White umbel shaped flowers are followed by large, bright red berries that are edible.  A big plant with berries can make a nice table center piece for Thanksgiving. Wintergreen oil is extracted from the aromatic fruit and foliage. 

Bloom:  Pinkish white bell flowers that bloom from June to August, followed by edible, bright red berries in fall and winter.

Habit:  6" tall, spreading slowly to 12" wide in 2-3 years with reasonable care.  Can spread indefinitely by underground runners. 

Exposure:  Shade. 

Site:  Best in acid, humus-rich, moist, yet well drained soil in part shade. 

Spreading rate:  Slow.  Spreads by underground runners.

Uses:  Great plant for woodland areas.  Plant in and amongst taller shrubs, trees, and rocks.  Use as a border along shaded pathways.

Fertilizing:  Feed in early spring and again lightly in early fall.  Use a balanced fertilizer, preferably one containing a slow release nitrogen source.  Because of it's preference for acidity, using a plant food suitable for Rhododendrons or Azaleas would be fine.  Always follow the manufacturer's label recommendations when making any applications of fertilizer.   Be sure to rinse the fertilizer off the foliage.

Watering:  Regular summer water should be provided the first couple of years to ensure good plant establishment and to promote maximum growth.  After that, water as needed.

Pruning:  None really.

Foot traffic:  No.

Hardiness:  -40° to -30° F.