Gaultheria procumbens

Gaultheria hispidula, also known as Creeping Snowberry or Moxie Plum, is a species of Gaultheria in the family Ericaceae. It is native to the boreal forests of North America, from Alaska to Newfoundland and Labrador, and south to Michigan, Minnesota, and New England.

Description

Gaultheria hispidula is a small, creeping, evergreen shrub that grows up to 15 cm tall. The leaves are alternate, oval, 1-2 cm long and 0.5-1 cm broad, with a distinctively pale underside. The flowers are bell-shaped, white, and produced in late spring. The fruit is a small, white berry, which is edible and has a wintergreen flavor.

Habitat and Distribution

Gaultheria hispidula is found in a variety of habitats, including bogs, swamps, and moist woodlands. It prefers acidic, well-drained soils and can often be found growing in association with mosses and lichens. The species is tolerant of cold temperatures and can survive in areas with harsh winters.

Uses

The berries of Gaultheria hispidula have been used by Native American tribes as a food source. The leaves and stems have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach aches and coughs.

Conservation Status

Gaultheria hispidula is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many boreal species, it may be threatened by climate change and habitat loss due to deforestation.

See Also

• Gaultheria procumbens
• Gaultheria shallon