Wintergreen is a plant I've always associated with this season--probably due to the word "winter" in it's name, though retaining its lush greenery when most plants don't certainly adds to the impression. The creeping stems of this evergreen native produce branches that reach up to six inches high, and display nodding white flowers from May to September. Although the delicate blossoms aren't showy, they do offer long- lasting flowering throughout the growing season.
Occurring naturally in woodland areas from south central and southeastern Canada to the north central and northeastern U.S., this plant prefers part sun and cooler spots in the garden--a perfect bloomer for shadier areas.
Historically, oil of wintergreen was used to treat aches and pains, much like aspirin. That's because the methyl salicylate in it is a chemical related to our preferred pain reliever. It's also used topically, in a tea used to treat sore throat or mouth, and can even soothe skin sores and irritations.
Of course, anyone who loves Wintergreen Lifesavers knows the oil is a natural flavoring in candies and gum, though pure, undiluted wintergreen oil is an irritant. Best not to apply it full-strength, unless you plan on spicing up a flowerbed with this perennial. Order it by its botanical name--Gaultheria procumbens--to ensure you get the right plant. That sparse corner of your garden will thank you all year long.
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