Wintergreen

From WildernessWiki.org

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) is a wild plant that grows in the mottled shade of northern forests. Also known as Teaberry or Checkerberry, it is edible and makes a wonderful trail snack. The crushed leaves and berries have a strong fresh scent, and can be invigorating when a hiker becomes tired. Wintergreen usually grows in large patches, with many plants obscured by duff on the forest floor.

Identification

The wintergreen has dark, shiny green leaves that turn a deep maroon when they are not exposed to enough sunlight. They look slightly oily, and the tops are smooth to the touch. The berries are bright red, becoming slightly shriveled before falling from the plant. They have one short, thin stem connecting them to the plant stalk. Be very sure that what you have discovered is Wintergreen, because many toxic plants sport bright red berries.

Uses

Wintergreen makes an excellent trail snack. The berries are slightly tangy and bitter, but are very fresh tasting. The leaves, when crushed and held up to the nostrils, make any tired person feel refreshed. Some hikers have been known to stuff a crushed leaf in one nostril, to keep the wonderful scent with them.