6-16-09: Gaultheria shallon

Gaultheria shallon Salal is in the Ericaceae family of plants. A common element in this family is the bell-shaped flowers, think heather, blue berry, strawberry tree, Manzanita and madrona.

Salal has delicate jewel-like white flowers hanging down from deep reddish pink stems. The bloom time is March through June followed by dark purple berries that are edible for humans and animals.

Salal, as a Pacific Northwest Native, is a very adaptable (sun or shade) plant. In the sun it grows to 2 feet tall and can be useful as a ground cover. As a shade plant it grows up to 10 feet tall as a lush understory plant with bright green leaves year round, pinkish white blooms and dusky blue berries.

Salal has always been a useful plant beyond the landscape. The greens are common in floral arrangements. The berries can be used in combination with elderberries and Oregon grape for preserves. Plant salal with evergreen huckleberry, rhododendron, and deer ferns and sword ferns. Once established salal sends out runners easily covering the ground. It can be cut down to renovate.

Pleasant Hill Nursery is pleased to offer:

Gaultheria shallon available in #1's: Call for Prices & to Check Availability