Gaultheria facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gaultheria |
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| Salal | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| (unranked): | |
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| Order: | |
| Family: | |
| Subfamily: |
Vaccinioideae
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| Tribe: |
Gaultherieae
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| Genus: |
Gaultheria
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| Type species | |
| Gaultheria procumbens |
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Gaultheria is a group of flowering plants. These plants are often shrubs, which are like small, woody bushes. They belong to the Ericaceae family. This family also includes plants like blueberries and cranberries. There are about 135 different kinds of Gaultheria species. One well-known type is the Salal, also called Gaultheria shallon. Many Gaultheria plants are commonly known as wintergreen. A scientist named Pehr Kalm first described this group of plants.
Contents
What is Gaultheria?
Gaultheria plants are usually small to medium-sized shrubs. Some can even be tiny trees. They are found in many parts of the world. You can find them in North and South America. They also grow in Asia and Australia. These plants often prefer cool, moist places. They like forests and mountain areas.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of Gaultheria plants are usually evergreen. This means they stay green all year round. The leaves are often thick and shiny. They can have a nice, fresh scent. This scent is especially strong in some types, like the eastern teaberry.
The flowers of Gaultheria are often bell-shaped. They can be white, pink, or red. These flowers usually hang down in clusters. After the flowers, the plants produce small, berry-like fruits. These fruits are often red or purple. They can be edible in some species.
Common Uses
Many Gaultheria species are known for their special properties. For example, the eastern teaberry (Gaultheria procumbens) has a strong wintergreen flavor. This flavor comes from a chemical called methyl salicylate. This chemical is used in many things. It is in candies, chewing gum, and even some medicines. It can help with muscle aches.
Some Gaultheria plants are also grown as ornamental plants. This means people grow them in gardens. They are liked for their evergreen leaves and colorful berries. They can add beauty to a garden, especially in winter.
Where Gaultheria Grows
Gaultheria plants are found in various climates. They grow in temperate regions. They also grow in tropical mountains. In North America, you might find them in forests. In South America, they can be part of the Andes mountain plant life. In Asia, they grow in places like the Himalayas.
Habitat and Environment
These plants often grow in acidic soils. They are common in woodlands and heathlands. They can form dense patches on the forest floor. This helps to protect the soil. They also provide food for wildlife. Birds and other animals eat their berries.
See also
In Spanish: Gaultheria para niños
