Gaultheria mucronata
prickly heath
G. mucronata is 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
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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 the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Suckering
- Potentially harmful
- All parts may cause severe discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling
- 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 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
Generally disease free
Get involved
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