Species Canada Enchanter's Nightshade
white flowers with lime leaves and stems

Canada Enchanter's Nightshade

Circaea canadensis subsp. canadensis

Canada Enchanter's Nightshade (Circaea canadensis subsp. canadensis) is a deciduous perennial wildflower native to Eastern North America. Growing within woodland or forested areas, this perennial has oval shaped leaves, reaching up to 2 inches in length. The small white flowers of the plant bloom throughout the summer, creating a beautiful and tranquil setting within any landscape. These flowers attract a variety of pollinators, particularly, bees and other flower-seeking insects. Canada Enchanter's Nightshade is best grown in nutrient rich, well-draining soil in partial shade. This species is an important source of food for wildlife and combines both beauty and utility in its landscape.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,purple

Growth Rate:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Canada Enchanter's Nightshade needs moist soil to thrive, so it's important to water it regularly. During the spring and summer, it should be watered deeply at least once a week. For best results, distribute the water evenly around the plant. During the drier weeks of the summer and during periods of extreme heat, you may need to water it twice a week. During the winter, when the plant has gone dormant, watering should be done only occasionally to avoid overwatering. Be sure the soil is completely dry before watering. This plant species prefers moist soil, but it is also sensitive to too much water, so pay attention to your plant's needs and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

sunlight

Canada Enchanter's Nightshade (Circaea canadensis subsp. canadensis) requires full to partial sunlight to grow best. During the warm summer months, it is best for the plant to receive at least a few hours of direct sunlight each day. During cooler months, such as spring and fall, having a few hours of indirect or filtered sunlight each day is ideal. In particular, the plant needs plenty of bright and direct sunlight during its flowering period in summer, which occurs from late June to late July. However, too much direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, such as mid-morning to early afternoon in summer, can be detrimental to the plant, as the intense heat can damage the foliage. For optimal growth, the Canada Enchanter's Nightshade should receive 6-8 hours of sunlight each day.

pruning

Canada Enchanter's Nightshade needs minimal pruning, only to remove dead or damaged branches or when necessary for aesthetic purposes. Pruning should take place in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins and is best done after all chance of frost has passed. When pruning, remove only up to 1-third of the shrub’s total height and volume in order to maintain the shape and health of the plant.