Large, thick, evergreen leaves are decorated with bell-shaped white flowers in the spring, followed by dark blue berries in summer. The berries of this native, woody perennial, have been a traditional food source of Pacific Northwest First Nations, who would eat them both fresh and dried, often mashed and dried into cakes. The berries are sweet and flavourful when ripe, with a slightly dry texture. Common names: Salal Edible: Berries Harvest timing: August - September Scientific name: Gaultheria shallon Light requirements: Sun, part-sun, shadeFull-grown size: 1-4' tall x 3' wide, can reach 5-6' tall under ideal conditionsHardiness: Zone 6Pollination: Self-pollinatingWildlife: Flowers and berries attract insects and wildlife, including hummingbirds.Origin: North America. Named Salal by the Chinook Indian Nation, whose traditional territory is roughly 250km south of Victoria, BC. Noteworthy: Evergreen. Leaves often used in flower arrangements.
