pernettya; prickly heath

Pernettya, or prickly heath, (Gaultheria mucronata) is a small evergreen shrub that likes a moist but well-draining soil and light shade. It is best suited to USDA Hardiness Zone 8 or warmer climates, and can handle temperatures as low as -10 to -20°F. The key to keeping pernettya healthy is to make sure it gets enough water. During summer, water deeply once or twice a week. During spring and fall, water deeply once a week. During winter, water deeply once a month or every 2 weeks, depending on the drainage of the soil and the amount of rainfall in your area. Always check the soil before watering to make sure it has completely dried out. The best way to gauge when to water is to stick your finger into the soil -- if it feels moist, then wait a few days to see if the soil dries out before you water. Make sure to water the entire plant, not just the leaves, to ensure that moisture reaches the roots properly.

Prickly heath, also known as Gautheria mucronata, is a highly sun-loving species of plant that grows best in areas that receive at least 6 hours of full sunlight per day. During the summer months, this species should receive the maximum amount of sunlight possible to ensure optimal growth and health. Ideally, prickly heath should be grown in an area of the garden that receives direct sunlight for the majority of the day, with some protection from the intense afternoon sun. In areas with cooler climates, this species may be able to tolerate some afternoon shade. During the winter months, however, prickly heath should receive as much direct sunlight as possible to help it withstand cool temperatures and remain healthy.

Pruning of Pernettya Prickly Heath (Gaultheria mucronata) should be done once a year, typically during the late winter season when the plant is dormant. Pruning can be done to manage the size of the plant and to encourage branching. When pruning Pernettya Prickly Heath, first remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Then go through and lightly prune the stems to shape the plant as desired. Begin by making cuts just above outward facing buds or a healthy pair of lateral buds. Make sure the cuts are made at a 45-degree angle parallel to the ground. Be sure to leave enough foliage to keep the plant healthy, as any drastic pruning can be damaging.