About 100 species of evergreen shrubs or small trees. Widely distributed, but concentrated in the Andes Mountains of S. America. A small forest plant with glossy evergreen leaves.
Fruit is a bright red berry which persists on the plant all winter.
The berries and tender young leaves have a pleasant, wintergreen flavor. The mature leaves can be used to make tea. Spreads slowly by rhizomes to form a colony. Requires a well-drained, acidic soil. May prefer a bit of shade, but does well in full sun if the soil is not too dry.