Gaultheria procumbens - P13

Description
The Checkerberry (Gaultheria procumbens) is a flat, carpet-like dwarf shrub with decorative, red, round fruits that stay on for a very long time. It produces light pink, bell-shaped flowers arranged in clusters from July to August. The Checkerberry also has leathery, egg-shaped, dark green leaves. In a semi-shady location with humus-rich, lime-free, acidic, weakly acidic soil, it usually reaches a height of approx. 20 cm and is approx. 40 cm wide.

Bulletpoints
* Fruiting ornament * beautiful foliage * the blossoms are very popular with bees, bumblebees and hoverflies * suitable for containers * easy to care for

leaves
High leaf ornamental value. The evergreen leaves of Checkerberry are dark green, ovate, leathery and alternate. They are about 1 - 3 cm in size. With its bronze-coloured foliage, it sets beautiful accents in winter.

Spread
North America.

Frost hardiness
The Checkerberry has good frost hardiness.

Growth
Checkerberry is a dwarf shrub that grows flat and carpet-like. It usually reaches a height of 15 - 20 cm and is approx. 20 - 40 cm wide. It usually grows 5 - 10 cm per year.

Water
The plant needs plenty of water. Do not allow the soil to dry out.

Location
Preferred location in partial shade.

Soil
Gaultheria procumbens thrives in all acidic, humus-rich and sufficiently moist soils. Commercially available container plant soil.

Planting time
Container plants can be planted all year round, except when the soil is frozen and in summer heat (over 30°C).

Tasks
- Fertilise: Monthly from April to September - Watering: From May to September - Pruning: In the period from August to September.

Care
Excess water must be able to drain away easily, waterlogging should be avoided at all costs.

Flower
The light pink, bell-shaped flowers of Checkerberry appear in clusters from July to August.

Fruit
The red, round fruits of Gaultheria procumbens are particularly decorative. These appear from September. Cling for a very long time.

Use
Tub, heather garden, bee pasture, ground cover

Root
Gaultheria procumbens is a shallow-rooting plant and, depending on the soil, forms densely branched, runner-forming roots.