Mountain Checkerberry (Gaultheria ovatifolia)

Family: Ericaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Gaultheria ovatifolia is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. Spicy and delicious. The fruit is up to 6mm in diameter. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Spicy and delicious.; The fruit is up to 6mm in diameter.

Habitat & North American Range

Various habitats from fairly dry yellow pine forests to sub-alpine bogs. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)