Wintergreen, Checkerberry

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall, presenting Thick, leathery, glossy dark green leaves, oval shape along with Small, white to pink, bell-shaped flowers appear in the spring, followed by Bright red berries that are edible and aromatic. These features are supported by a reliable Shallow, fibrous root system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Eastern North America, Wintergreen, Checkerberry thrives in Wooded areas and acidic, moist soils at elevations around Sea level to about 2,500 feet (750 meters). Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone Zones 3-7. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Wintergreen, Checkerberry, This plant prefers Partial to full shade and flourishes in Well-drained, acidic soils with a soil pH of about 4.5 6.0.

Wintergreen, Checkerberry needs watering,Moderate; does not tolerate drought, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Moist, but well-drained, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Water at soil level to avoid wetting the foliage supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Wintergreen, Checkerberry performs best within 20 F to 85 F (-6 C to 29 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 60 F to 75 F (15 C to 24 C), though it tolerates ranges from Min: -20 F (-29 C), Max: 95 F (35 C). Additionally, maintaining Prefers moderate to high humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Organic mulch to maintain soil moisture and acidity enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves may indicate nitrogen deficiency helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Late winter or early spring for Light pruning to remove dead or damaged foliage tidies its appearance, while Every 2-3 years, if grown in pots may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Increase by 1-2 inches in diameter increase and a fresh Peat-based potting mix for container growth. for Staking or Support. None required.

During Winter, growth may slow and some Evergreen; leaves remain through winter can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed germination and stem cuttings and provide Moist, warm conditions; may take several weeks when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Cuttings from young stems should be taken in spring, placed in a humid environment, and kept moist to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWintergreen, Checkerberry problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for None significant, occasional leaf spot due to moisture and remain vigilant against Root rot in overly wet conditions. Implementing Avoid overwatering and applying Remove affected plants or foliage; improve drainage when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Ferns, heather, and other acid-loving plants and shows None documented, making it a flexible choice for various Ground cover, shade gardens, and woodland settings.

the Edible Parts: Leaves and berries. Toxicty of Wintergreen, Checkerberry, Generally non-toxic; consumption of large amounts may lead to negative effects. learning about its Berries in late summer to fall, leaves trimmed for use, Used as flavoring in teas, candies, and traditional medicinal uses, and High in antioxidants, contains methyl salicylate can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditional use as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic or note its Historically used by Indigenous peoples for medicinal and culinary purposes.

With an Least Concern, proper Preservation of native habitat, sustainable harvesting