Status:
valid
Authors:
Remy
Source:
cmp
Year:
1847
Citation Micro:
Ann. Sci. Nat., Bot. , sér. 3, 8: 231 (1847)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000695162
Common Names
- Fetid Wintergreen
- Fetid Gaultheria
- Formosa Wintergreen
Description
Gaultheria formosa (also called Beautiful Wintergreen, among many other common names) is an evergreen shrub native to the temperate regions of North America. It typically grows in shady, moist, acidic soil and can reach heights of up to 1 meter.
Uses & Benefits
Gaultheria formosa is used as an ornamental plant, for its edible berries, and for its medicinal properties. It is also used to make jams, jellies, and other food products.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Gaultheria formosa has white, bell-shaped flowers with five petals and five sepals. The flowers are followed by small, round, red berries that contain the seeds. The seedlings are small and have oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Gaultheria formosa is a low-growing evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves. It is native to moist, shady areas in the northern hemisphere. It can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or layering. Seeds should be sown in a cold frame in spring and cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer. Layering should be done in late summer or early fall.
Where to Find Gaultheria formosa
Gaultheria formosa can be found in the Himalayas, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China.
Gaultheria formosa FAQ
What is the scientific name of Gaultheria formosa?
Gaultheria formosa
What is the common name of Gaultheria formosa?
Formosa Wintergreen
What is the natural habitat of Gaultheria formosa?
Forests and thickets
Species in the Gaultheria genus
Gaultheria abbreviata,
Gaultheria acroleia,
Gaultheria acuminata,
Gaultheria adenothrix,
Gaultheria akaensis,
Gaultheria alnifolia,
Gaultheria amoena,
Gaultheria anastomosans,
Gaultheria angustifolia,
Gaultheria antarctica,
Gaultheria antipoda,
Gaultheria appressa,
Gaultheria arfakana,
Gaultheria atjehensis,
Gaultheria barbulata,
Gaultheria berberidifolia,
Gaultheria blumei,
Gaultheria bolivari,
Gaultheria borneensis,
Gaultheria bracteata,
Gaultheria bradeana,
Gaultheria brevistipes,
Gaultheria buxifolia,
Gaultheria caespitosa,
Gaultheria calyculata,
Gaultheria caparoensis,
Gaultheria celebica,
Gaultheria chiriquensis,
Gaultheria codonantha,
Gaultheria colensoi,
Gaultheria congesta,
Gaultheria cordata,
Gaultheria corvensis,
Gaultheria crassa,
Gaultheria cuneata,
Gaultheria depressa,
Gaultheria dialypetala,
Gaultheria discolor,
Gaultheria discolor,
Gaultheria domingensis,
Gaultheria dumicola,
Gaultheria elegans,
Gaultheria erecta,
Gaultheria eriophylla,
Gaultheria floribunda,
Gaultheria foliolosa,
Gaultheria formosa,
Gaultheria fragrantissima,
Gaultheria glaucifolia,
Gaultheria glaziovii,
Species in the Ericaceae family