Gaultheria shallon (Salal)

Plant Description: Evergreen shrub with leathery green leaves often used in floral arrangements. Produces pinkish-white little flowers in spring followed by dark-blue edible berries that are a good source of food for wildlife. This plant has both edible and medicinal properties. Aside from the edible berries, it is also an excellent astringent and overall anti-inflammatory herb. 

• Height: 3ft
• Width: 3ft
• Watering Needs: Let dry between waterings
• Sun Needs: Partial to full shade
• Soil Needs: Moist to semi-dry
• Bloom Time: March, April, May, June

• Portland Plant List (Backyard Habitat Certification): Yes

Landscape Use and Ecological Function: This native plant can be found in moist forest margins, coastal bluffs, and humid and temperate locations. It grows along the Pacific Coast, inland to the western slope of the Cascades and Coast Ranges, and to Southern Alaska - usually at lower elevations. We recommend growing this plant in food forests, woodland gardens, and conventional or ornamental gardens. Salal provides important cover for a variety of wildlife and many birds and mammals readily eat the fruit. It is also excellent for attracting pollinators. 

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