Also known as Teaberry, this low ground-covering subshrub has alternate evergreen leaves that are very pleasantly fragrant when crushed (smelling of wintergreen, naturally), making for easy identification. The aroma of the crushed leaves is similar to that of Sweet Birch (Betula lenta), but more intense. Wintergreen occurs throughout North Carolina, but is most common in the Mountains and eastern Coastal Plain.

Bladen Co., NC 3/25/07.

The bright red berries last throughout the winter.

Bladen Co., NC 3/25/07.