Gaultheria shallon is a leathery-leaved shrub in the heather family (Ericaceae), native to western North America. In English it is known as salal, shallon, or in Britain simply Gaultheria.

     Gaultheria shallon is very tolerant of both open sun and shady conditions. In coastal areas it can form deep, nearly impenetrable thickets. It grows as far north as Baranof Island, Alaska.[1] Western poison oak is a common associate in the California Coast Ranges.[2]