American Wintergreen

American Wintergreen: Ideal for the Holidays & Beyond

Low-growing and full of charm, the American Wintergreen brings year-round interest in a pint-sized package. Topping out at just 3–6 inches tall, this native groundcover spreads slowly to form a dense, evergreen mat—perfect for tucking into shady borders, woodland gardens, or containers.

• Holiday ready: Red berries and burgundy-tinged leaves add festive color in fall and winter
• Compact & tidy: Grows just 3–6 inches tall—great for small spaces and underplanting
• Evergreen appeal: Keeps its foliage year-round for four-season interest
• Container-friendly: Ideal for pots, window boxes, or indoors in bright, cool spots
• Low maintenance: Slow-spreading and easy to care for once established

It’s an easy pick for holiday planters or adding a touch of winter woods magic near your front door.

1. Where does American Wintergreen grow best?
   It thrives in partial to full shade with moist, well-drained, acidic soil—think woodland edges, shady borders, or north-facing garden spots. It’s a native groundcover that prefers cooler conditions and doesn’t love hot, dry sites.
2. Can I grow American Wintergreen indoors?
   Absolutely! American Wintergreen adapts well to containers and can grow indoors as long as it has a cool, bright spot—think near a north or east-facing window. Just keep it out of direct afternoon sun and make sure the soil stays lightly moist.
3. Does American Wintergreen need pollinators to produce berries?
   Yes, it benefits from cross-pollination by insects like bees to produce those signature red berries. Planting more than one can increase berry production, especially outdoors. Indoors, pollination may be limited unless manually assisted.
4. How do I care for it through the seasons?
   This plant is evergreen and stays attractive year-round with minimal fuss. In fall and winter, its leaves deepen to a burgundy tone, and the red berries stick around into the colder months. Just avoid soggy soil, and it’ll stay happy across the seasons.
5. Is American Wintergreen invasive or fast-spreading?
   Not at all—it spreads slowly and stays where you put it. That makes it perfect for edging, underplanting, or filling in shady container gardens without taking over. It's more of a polite guest than a garden party crasher.