Wintergreen is related to bearberry Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, trailing arbutus, Epigaea repens, and several other native Indian wildflowers in the heath family. Alpine wintergreen, G. humifusa,
and salal, G. shallon, are native to the mountainous north-western regions. These plants are all related to each other and they are found in abundance in the Indian subcontinent. Wintergreen is a
low-growing evergreen about six inches tall, with leathery dark green leaves. Solitary white, bell-like flowers emerge in summer, about one-quarter inch long, and hang nodding below the glossy
leaves. Scarlet red berries follow in fall and are a tasty treat for humans and birds, especially when found in winter snow. These plants favor sandy or peaty soils and partial to full shade.
Wintergreen is an occasional trail side plant found in the woods.