Round-leaved Wintergreen
pyrola rotundifolia
Also known as: ["Round-leaved Wintergreen","Round-leaved Pyrola"]
Overview
A small, evergreen herbaceous plant with rounded leaves and nodding white or pale pink flowers, typically found in acidic, moist woodlands.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Pyrola |
| Botanical Name: | Pyrola rotundifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded understory, or shaded container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Moist, acidic, well-draining soil with high organic matter; peat-based mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems and leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of dappled or morning sunlight is ideal; protect from intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; avoid direct sun exposure to prevent leaf burn; place in a sheltered spot outdoors or a north-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide filtered light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Maintain consistent moisture without saturation; water when the top inch of soil feels dry; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
acidic, moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0.
Use acidic soil mix; keep soil consistently moist; ensure good drainage.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); prefers cooler conditions and can tolerate mild frosts.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden fluctuations.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 3 months if in cultivation
Use a weak solution to prevent root burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division or seed propagation; division is more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into smaller sections with roots attached.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Water gently.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins or after flowering.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based soil mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seeds to improve germination rates.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 4–8 weeks, establishment in 6–12 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, peat-based mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Divide only when necessary; keep newly propagated plants out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted growth with clean cuts just above a leaf node or natural branching point.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh the soil.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water evenly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer; reduce in winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to enhance acidity and moisture retention; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage if below freezing; may enter dormancy in colder climates.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move indoors in cold climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPyrola rotundifolia is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant for felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPyrola rotundifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant for canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPyrola rotundifolia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects or physiological impacts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pyrola rotundifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where does Pyrola rotundifolia typically grow?
A: It thrives in acidic, moist woodlands and shaded areas.
Q: Does Pyrola rotundifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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