Fragrant Wintergreen
Gaultheria fragrantissima
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Pl. 44D4 — Gaultheria fragrantissima
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IOverview
Overview
Fragrant Wintergreen (Gaultheria fragrantissima) is a small evergreen shrub native to the mountainous regions of Southeast Asia and South-Central China. It thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, light to medium soil. This plant is known for its edible fruit and leaves, making it a valuable addition to gardens or as a source of culinary ingredients. One distinctive feature of Fragrant Wintergreen is its strong, aromatic scent, which can be enjoyed both in the garden and when used in various applications. Its native range includes Assam, China South-Central, East Himalaya, India, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Islands, Malaya, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Sumatera, Tibet, and Vietnam.
Quick answers
What is Fragrant Wintergreen?
Fragrant Wintergreen (Gaultheria fragrantissima) is a small evergreen shrub native to the mountainous regions of Southeast Asia and South-Central China. It thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, light to medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Fragrant Wintergreen thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. It is hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 1 meter tall. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. The plant's edible parts include the fruit and leaves, making it a versatile addition to gardens in temperate regions.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Fragrant Wintergreen for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Fragrant Wintergreen in a partially shaded area, as it thrives best under light shade.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Fragrant Wintergreen plant or seeds, well-draining soil, and a container if planting in pots.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring when the threat of frost has passed, or in late summer for better root establishment.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, well-draining soil mix. Ensure containers have drainage holes if planting in pots.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants carefully to avoid damaging roots. For seeds, sow them lightly covered in moist soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and place the plant in a partially shaded area to acclimate.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Provide light shade and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape, but avoid cutting back too much as it may affect fruit production.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, and not providing enough shade are common issues. Avoid using heavy soils that can lead to root rot.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: Condiment, Tea
Other uses:Essential OilFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
13 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
13 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 13 native
Asia6 regions
native (6)ChinaIndiaMyanmarNepalSri LankaVietnam
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Sumatera
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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