Plant Details

• Botanical NameGaultheria procumbens ‘Ciao Bella White’
• Common NameAmerican wintergreen; teaberry; boxberry
• Size & Growth4–8 in tall (10–20 cm); 12–18 in spread (30–45 cm); slow, rhizomatous groundcover
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 3–7 (very cold-hardy with protection from drying winter winds)
• Foliage TypeEvergreen, leathery, glossy dark green; turns bronzy-red in cold weather
• Bloom TimeLate spring to midsummer; small white, urn-shaped flowers followed by white berries into winter
• Growth RateSlow to moderate; spreads gently by short rhizomes
• Light RequirementsPartial shade to full shade; morning sun in cool climates; avoid hot afternoon sun
• Attracts PollinatorsBee-friendly blooms; berries add seasonal interest and may be taken by wildlife
• Indoor FriendlyBest outdoors; suitable only for short-term indoor display in bright, cool conditions
• Container FriendlyExcellent in pots and window boxes using acidic, well-drained mix
• Deer ResistantGenerally resistant; aromatic foliage is typically avoided by deer and rabbits
• Pet WarningLeaves/berries contain methyl salicylate; ingestion may be harmful to pets and children—use caution
• FragrantYes—foliage releases a minty wintergreen scent when touched or crushed
• Cut FlowerNot a traditional cut flower; sprigs with berries are attractive in small arrangements/wreaths
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Azaleas & rhododendrons, Pieris, Skimmia, Leucothoe, Vaccinium, Erica/Calluna, dwarf conifers, hardy ferns, fine-textured Carex

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in spring or early fall in partial shade. Amend hole with peat moss/pine bark to increase acidity. Space 10–15 in apart. Set crown level with soil, water well, and mulch 2–3 in with pine needles or shredded bark.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged. Do not allow to dry out fully—especially in containers. Water when the top 1 in feels slightly dry.
• Soil TypeAcidic (pH 4.5–5.5), humus-rich, and well-drained. Incorporate leaf mold/composted pine bark. Avoid alkaline or limed soils.
• HumidityPrefers moderate humidity and cool roots. Mulch to conserve moisture. Indoors (short-term), keep away from heat vents; use a humidity tray if air is very dry.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning needed. Remove winter-burned leaves in spring and lightly trim to tidy after fruiting. Avoid hard pruning into old wood.
• Winter CareVery hardy. Apply 2–3 in mulch to prevent freeze–thaw heaving. In exposed sites, shield from winter sun/wind. Overwinter containers in a sheltered, unheated, bright spot; water sparingly.
• Planting DepthPlant at the same depth as in the pot; do not bury the crown. Shallow roots—set rhizomes just beneath the surface (about 0.5–1 in / 1–2.5 cm).
• FertilizationLight feeder. In early spring, apply a slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving plants or top-dress with composted bark. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas and lime. Use chelated iron if chlorosis appears.
• Special CareBest fruiting with 2+ genetically distinct plants nearby. Water with rainwater where tap water is alkaline. Refresh mulch annually; repot container plants every 2–3 years with ericaceous mix.