Gaultheria procumbens - Checkerberry

This evergreen groundcover produces bright red berries and fragrant white to pink flowers from late spring to early summer, creating year-round interest in your garden. Hardy to -20°C, it thrives in the UK’s cooler climate and is perfect for adding texture and colour to shaded areas or woodland gardens. Compact and easy to care for, this low-growing shrub works well as ground cover or in containers.

Gaultheria procumbens, also known as Checkerberry, is a native North American plant with a creeping, spreading habit. It features glossy, dark green leaves that turn a deep red in the autumn before dropping in winter. In addition to its showy berries, it produces small, bell-shaped flowers in the summer, which are followed by edible red berries that persist throughout the winter. The plant’s aromatic foliage releases a minty scent when crushed, adding extra sensory interest to your garden.

Scientific Name
Gaultheria procumbens (sprawling, aromatic plant)

Common Name
Checkerberry, Wintergreen, Boxberry

Origin
Native to North America, particularly in the eastern United States and Canada.

Pruning Tips
Trim back any dead or damaged growth in early spring to maintain a neat appearance. No major pruning is necessary, as this plant naturally maintains a compact form.

Wildlife Value
The red berries provide a valuable food source for birds, especially in winter when other food sources are scarce.

Positioning
Thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded corners. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but may require extra water.

Water
Keep soil consistently moist, especially in hot weather, but avoid waterlogging. It’s quite drought-tolerant once established.

Soil
Prefers acidic, well-draining soil, rich in organic matter. It is ideal for acidic soils found in woodland or heathland areas.

Food
Feed with a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in spring for best results, but avoid over-fertilising as it can cause excessive growth.

Pet-safe
Toxic to pets—berries and leaves should be kept out of reach of animals and children.

Sprouts Top Tips
Checkerberry thrives in acidic, slightly moist conditions and benefits from being planted alongside other shade-loving plants. It can also be grown in containers for a pop of colour on patios or shaded balconies.