Gaultheria procumbens Very Berry ('Kieverber')

RHS Plant Profile
checkerberry [Very Berry]

Synonyms

Gaultheria procumbens 'Kieverber'
Gaultheria 'Very Berry'

Shrubs

A low-growing evergreen shrub to around 15cm in height, with elliptic, leathery, glossy dark green leaves, that are aromatic when crushed and tint purple-bronze in winter. Clusters of small, bell-shaped white flowers are produced in summer, followed by scarlet berries in autumn that persist into winter

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched, Suckering
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Gaultheria are evergreen, often dioecious, shrubs with simple, leathery leaves and small, bell-shaped white or pink flowers, followed by long lasting fleshy fruits in various colours
Name Status
Trade

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, acidic or neutral soils in shade or partial shade. For planting in containers, use an ericaceous compost

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs

Pruning

Pruning group 8

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility