Gaultheria shallon
Sold as: 3.5” Pots
Salal (Gaultheria shallon) is an evergreen shrub with thick, tough, egg-shaped leaves. The leaves are shiny and dark green on the upper surface, and rough and lighter green on the lower. Salal is tolerant of both sunny and shady conditions at low to moderate elevations. It is a common coniferous forest understory species and may dominate large areas. Its dark blue berries and young leaves are edible. Berries are used locally in jams, preserves, and pies.
Classification: Perennial
Key Characteristics: Fruit, small white flower
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Water Requirements: Dry to moist soil
Ease of Growing: High
Growth Rate: Moderate
Bloom Time: May–July
Spreads: By rhizome
Benefits: Wildlife, Rain garden, Pollinators, Beneficial insects, Wildfire resistant, Riparian zones, Deer resistant, On Portland Plant List, Hummingbirds
Edible: Yes
Mature Height: 1–5 feet
Mature Width: 1–5 feet
Photo Credits:
Image 1: Ashley Smithers via Clark Conservation District
Image 2: Mackenzie Hagedorn via Clark Conservation District
Image 3: Ashley Smithers via Clark Conservation District
