Native to western North America, Gaultheria shallon (Shallon) is a dense, robust, evergreen shrub with erect or spreading, intricately branched stems. They are covered with heart-shaped, nearly round, leathery, glossy green leaves that turn reddish-purple with winter cold. The evergreen foliage is so attractive that it is often used by florists in flower arrangements. In spring to mid summer, small, urn-shaped, white or light pink flowers dangle along reddish bristly stems in the upper leaf axils. They are followed by edible dark-blue berries that ripen in late summer.  The berries can be eaten fresh, cooked and dried. They are also a source of food for birds and mammals. Spreading by underground stems, Shallon will spread over time to form an attractive ground cover. Perfect for shady areas.

• Grows up to 4-10 ft. tall and wide (120-300 cm). Will spread to form thickets in the landscape.
• A part shade to full shade lover, this plant is best grown in moist or dry, acidic, well-drained soils.
• Perfect for beds and borders, banks and slopes, city gardens, cottage gardens, rock gardens, containers or as a groundcover. Great shrub for shade or woodland gardens.
• Excellent resistance to pests and diseases.
• Prune immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by seed or by division of plants. Pot up with soil attached for best results.
• Native to western North America from California to British Columbia.