Gaultheria rupestris Plant Care

Gaultheria rupestris (Gaultheria rupestris) belongs to the Ericaceae family within the Gaultheria genus. Gaultheria rupestris is native to New Zealand.

Gaultheria rupestris displays a low spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Gaultheria rupestris produces small white or pink bell-shaped flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Gaultheria rupestris every 4–7 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Gaultheria rupestris thrives in partial to full shade. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Gaultheria rupestris in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Gaultheria rupestris tolerates temperatures of 50–75°F. Gaultheria rupestris prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining acidic soil with high organic matter content. Good drainage is essential for Gaultheria rupestris to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Gaultheria rupestris every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with partial to full shade and well-draining acidic soil with high organic matter content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Gaultheria rupestris is suited to USDA Zone 12a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Gaultheria rupestris can spread to about 2 ft (0.6 m) and reach about 2 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.6 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Gaultheria rupestris while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Gaultheria rupestris is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 12). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Gaultheria rupestris can be propagated through seeds, division of clumps, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to salal plant care, which shares the same genus.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Gaultheria rupestris is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Gaultheria rupestris grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Gaultheria rupestris is native to New Zealand. In cooler regions, grow Gaultheria rupestris as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.