Gaultheria oppositifolia facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Gaultheria oppositifolia
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Asterids
Order:	Ericales
Family:	Ericaceae
Genus:	Gaultheria
Species:	G. oppositifolia
Binomial name
Gaultheria oppositifolia Hook.f.
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Gaultheria oppositifolia is a type of shrub that belongs to the heath family, called Ericaceae. This plant is special because it is endemic to New Zealand, meaning it grows naturally only there. The Māori people have their own names for it, like kama and niniwa. In New Zealand, plants from the Gaultheria group are often called snowberry.

Meet the Snowberry Plant

Gaultheria oppositifolia is a strong, bushy shrub that spreads out. It likes to grow in rocky areas, especially in the North Island of New Zealand. You can often spot it growing under manuka bushes.

What it Looks Like

This plant has oval-shaped leaves that feel a bit leathery. The edges of the leaves are toothed, like a saw. These leaves are attached directly to the twigs in pairs. Each leaf is about 3 to 6 centimeters (1.2 to 2.4 inches) long and 2 to 3 centimeters (0.8 to 1.2 inches) wide.

Flowers and Fruits

In late summer, the Gaultheria oppositifolia plant shows off its beautiful white flowers. These flowers are shaped like tiny bells. They grow in clusters that can be up to 10 centimeters (4 inches) long. You'll find these flower clusters at the very tips of the twigs.

When autumn arrives, the plant produces its fruit. This fruit is a dry capsule, which is like a small, dry seed pod. The capsules can be either red or white.