Snowberry
Gaultheria hispidafam. Ericaceae
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Pl. 52DE — Gaultheria hispida
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IOverview
Overview
Snowberry, scientifically known as Gaultheria hispida and belonging to the Ericaceae family, is native to Tasmania. This plant thrives in partial sun to shade, requiring moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. Hardy from zones 8-11, Snowberry reaches a height of about 0.9 meters. It is known for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed directly or incorporated into various culinary creations. One distinctive feature of this plant is its evergreen leaves and white berries that add ornamental value to gardens.
Quick answers
What is Snowberry?
Snowberry, scientifically known as Gaultheria hispida and belonging to the Ericaceae family, is native to Tasmania. This plant thrives in partial sun to shade, requiring moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. Hardy from zones 8-11, Snowberry reaches a height of about 0.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Snowberry thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. It is hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 0.9 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining. Propagate via seeds or cuttings. The fruit of Snowberry is edible and can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
0.9 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Snowberry for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Snowberry in a partially shaded area, ensuring you have the right soil and care basics down.
- 1
What you'll need
Snowberry plants or seeds, potting mix suitable for ericaceous plants, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining soil mix with plenty of organic matter. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots into your garden bed, spacing them about 1 meter apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the newly planted Snowberry regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and regular watering. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and remove any dead or damaged branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using regular potting soil instead of ericaceous mix.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Snowberry (Gaultheria hispida) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, it is enjoyed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the detailed recipes; simply enjoy its natural sweetness and flavor.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native
Broader regions
native:Tasmania
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Ericaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Ericaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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