Species Common Wintergreen
pink-white flowers with lime center, purple stamens and purple-pink stems

Common Wintergreen

Chimaphila umbellata

Also Known As - Pipsissewa,Prince's Pine
Common Wintergreen (Chimaphila umbellata) is a species of evergreen perennial wildflower native to the northern hemisphere. Growing up to 20 cm tall, the leaves are glossy, deep green and elliptic, while the flowers are bell-shaped, often tinged with pink. Common wintergreen grows in unusually dry and acidic soils in woodland clearings, thickets and heaths. Its fruits, drupelets, are edible and are an important food source for the American robin and other songbirds during winter months. The roots of the plant have also been used traditionally for medicinal purposes, providing numerous health benefits.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

White/Cream|Pink Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade,full shade

Soil:

Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Common Wintergreen needs low levels of moisture. It should be watered deeply and infrequently, approximately once a month during the growing season when the soil is not overly wet. During dry periods, the soil should be kept slightly moist. In very hot and dry climates, more frequent watering may be necessary. Be sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.

sunlight

Common Wintergreen (Chimaphila umbellata) is a shade-loving plant species. It does best when it receives indirect, partial sunlight or dappled light. The ideal amount of sunlight for Common Wintergreen is between 2 to 4 hours of sunshine per day. It is best to avoid placing it in direct noon day sun or in areas that have constant full sun exposure. Providing Common Wintergreen with the right amount of sunlight is important in order to get the best foliage color and flowering.

pruning

Common Wintergreen should be pruned in early spring, when new growth is about to begin. Pruning should consist of light trimming to remove dead or overly woody branches. This helps promote new growth growth and shape the plant. Make sure to avoid pruning active or healthy parts of the plant. Pruning should be limited to a maximum of 1/3rd of the branches or stems of the plant. Doing so will help keep the plant aesthetically balanced and will prevent any major damage or shock to the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Common Wintergreen typically starts flowering in April.