Species Enchanter's Nightshade
white flowers with lime buds, green leaves and stems

Enchanter's Nightshade

Circaea alpina subsp. pacifica

Enchanter's Nightshade (Circaea alpina subsp. pacifica) is a rhizomatous perennial native to the Pacific Northwest in North America. Its small, bell-shaped white flowers are decorated by intricate violet to purplish veins and appear from late spring. The plant’s alternate, oval-shaped leaves are yellowish-green and have toothed margins. These features make it an ideal plant for wild gardens, woodland borders, and moist shady areas. Enchanter's Nightshade is easy to care for and requires little attention, making it the perfect addition to a low maintenance garden.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Enchanter's Nightshade requires regular watering but not too much. Water your plant deeply about once a week when the soil becomes dry. Make sure not to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. In the height of summer, when the plant is actively growing, you may need to water it twice a week. Make sure to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Monitor the soil and check it for moisture before watering. If the soil remains moist, wait until it begins to dry out before watering again.

sunlight

Enchanter's Nightshade (Circaea alpina subsp. pacifica) thrives in partial to full shade, meaning it needs at least 8-10 hours of indirect sunlight per day. Additionally, direct sunlight should be avoided if possible. This species grows best when filtered sunlight is provided during the morning or late afternoon/early evening, as these will be the coolest times in the day. It's important to note that this plant species will not tolerate intense, direct sunlight for more than a few hours at a time.

pruning

Enchanter's Nightshade should be pruned lightly in late spring or early summer, just before the blooms begin to appear. Pruning too much can reduce the flower display, so always use cautious pruning practices. Start by removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Also, thin out overly dense areas of the plant to allow air and light to reach the inner branches. After that, selectively prune off stems that are growing too leggy and low to the ground. Lastly, cut off any upright stems that are taller than the low-growing mounds that Enchanter's Nightshade naturally forms.