Wintergreen – Evergreen Ground Cover Plant UK

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) – 

Usually available: spring & autumn
Life cycle: hardy evergreen perennial
Height: 10–15cm
Bloom colour: white to pale pink
Position: part shade / shade
Spacing: 30–45cm apart
Soil preference: moist, acidic, well-drained

You will receive 1 Wintergreen plug plant, -7cm Pot organically grown and ready to establish in your garden.

All of our plants are grown organically using certified organic potting mixes and fertilisers.

A Hardy Evergreen Ground Cover for UK Gardens

Gaultheria procumbens, commonly known as Wintergreen or Teaberry, is a low-growing evergreen perennial prized for its glossy dark green leaves, delicate bell-shaped flowers, and bright red winter berries.

Organically grown and carefully nurtured, this shade-loving plant is perfectly suited to UK gardens, especially woodland borders, underplanting schemes, and acidic soil areas. It provides year-round interest — fresh green foliage in spring and summer, white-pink flowers in summer, and vibrant red berries through autumn and winter.

Its leaves release a refreshing minty aroma when gently crushed, making it a sensory delight in shaded garden spaces.

Why Grow Wintergreen?

Hardy evergreen perennial for UK climate

Excellent ground cover for shade

Attractive red winter berries

Aromatic foliage with fresh scent

Ideal for woodland and acidic soils

Low maintenance once established

Perfect for naturalistic planting, forest garden schemes, and underplanting beneath shrubs.

Traditional & Practical Uses

Aromatic foliage:
Leaves have a naturally minty fragrance when crushed.

Ornamental value:
Glossy leaves and long-lasting berries provide winter colour when many plants fade.

Wildlife support:
Flowers attract pollinators, and berries may provide seasonal interest for wildlife.

(For internal use, consult a qualified herbal practitioner.)

Growing Wintergreen in the UK

Wintergreen performs best in:

Partial to full shade

Moist, acidic, well-drained soil

Woodland-style planting schemes

Sheltered garden borders

It is fully hardy across the UK and spreads slowly to form a neat, low carpet. Avoid lime-rich soils, as it prefers acidic conditions similar to rhododendrons and blueberries.

Spacing plants 30–45cm apart allows for gradual ground coverage.

Physical Characteristics

Height: 10–15cm
Spread: 30–60cm over time
Foliage: glossy dark green evergreen leaves
Flowers: small white to pale pink bell-shaped blooms
Berries: bright red, persistent through winter
Growth habit: low-growing, spreading ground cover

Safety Note

Not recommended for internal use without professional guidance.

With Wintergreen, your garden gains evergreen structure, winter colour, and aromatic charm. A beautiful, hardy ground cover for UK gardeners seeking year-round interest in shaded spaces.

Grow naturally. Grow organically. Grow with The Healing Herb Garden.