Origin
The Gaultheria, better known by the name Pernettya, originates from the cool mountainous regions of South America. Not only does the plant belong to the Gaultheria genus, it is also part of the heath family. This evergreen shrub mainly grows in the Andes and in the southern areas of Chile and Argentina.

Characteristics
The Gaultheria is a hardy shrub known for its dense, evergreen leaves. These come in a glossy and dark green shade and are characterised by their leathery texture. The plant grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 metres and bears white-pink flowers in the spring. In the autumn, these are replaced by striking, round fruits that vary in colour from white to dark purple.

Care
Ideal for the Gaultheria is semi-shade, where the plant does not have to stand in direct sunlight. By nature, the Gaultheria is accustomed to a cool, moist and well-drained soil. However, the plant can also survive in drier conditions, provided the soil is rich in organic material. It is recommended to fertilise the shrub annually and to keep the soil around the plant slightly acidic for optimum growth.