What is a Teaberry?
Teaberry or Gaultheria procumbens is an aromatic shrub which grows close to the ground, with a spreading growth habit which leads many gardeners to use it as a groundcover. It is native to the Northeastern regions of North America, and can be grown in USDA zones three through eight. In addition to being aromatic and pleasant to look at, teaberry is also a source of oil of wintergreen, an aromatic essential oil produced by several plant families. The leaves of the teaberry are oval, glossy, and dark green. The plant produces small white bell-shaped flowers which mature into bright red berries in the fall and winter. Teaberries remain evergreen, which can be appealing in cold climates where many plants are deciduous, as the teaberry can provide a nice blanket of green color, as long as it isn’t covered in snow. Oil of wintergreen has a very distinct, sharp odor. It has been used historically in scenting candles, incense, and potpourri, and it is also used to flavor gum. Teaberry gum is e
