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Description
Gaultheria Depressa, also known as Alpine Wintergreen, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to Asia, specifically Japan, Korea, and China. This plant is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and berries. Gaultheria Depressa is commonly used in rock gardens, container gardens, and as ground cover. It can grow up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Gaultheria |
Appearance
Gaultheria Depressa has dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and about 1 inch long. The leaves are alternately arranged on the stem. The plant produces small, white or pink, bell-shaped flowers in the summer that are followed by vivid red berries in the fall. The berries are edible but have a bitter taste.
Care Guide
- Water: Gaultheria Depressa prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with an acid-loving fertilizer.
- Soil: Gaultheria Depressa prefers well-draining soil that is acidic and rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from hot afternoon sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Gaultheria Depressa is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gaultheria Depressa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Mites and scale insects can occasionally infest the plant.
Habitat
Gaultheria Depressa grows naturally in mountainous regions and forests in Asia. It prefers cool, moist environments with well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I eat the berries of Gaultheria Depressa?
A: Yes, the berries are edible but have a bitter taste.
Q: Can Gaultheria Depressa grow in full sun?
A: Gaultheria Depressa prefers partial shade to full shade but can tolerate some morning sun.
Q: How often should I water Gaultheria Depressa?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gaultheria Depressa?
A: Gaultheria Depressa is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Related Plants
- Gaultheria Procumbens
- Gaultheria Shallon
- Gaultheria Mucronata
References
- “Gaultheria Depressa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j580.
- “Gaultheria Depressa.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/gaultheria-depressa.
- “Gaultheria Depressa.” RHS Gardening, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18902/Gaultheria-depressa/Details.
