One-sided Wintergreen
orthilia secunda
Also known as: ["One-sided Pyrola","False Wintergreen"]
Overview
A small, evergreen herbaceous plant with nodding, bell-shaped flowers arranged in a one-sided raceme.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Orthilia |
| Botanical Name: | Orthilia secunda |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden 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: Moderately well-draining; retains some moisture but does not stay waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Moist, acidic, well-draining soil with high organic content; resembles forest floor conditions.
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 or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light; avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; ideal for shaded garden beds or north-facing windows.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Use sheer curtains to filter light; place under taller plants for dappled shade; rotate periodically for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
acidic, moist, well-drained peat-based soil
pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).
Use a mix of peat and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool nights; protect from heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of mature clumps can also be attempted.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect fresh seeds or divide clumps.
- Sow seeds shallowly or replant divisions.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, well-draining seed starting mix or peat-based medium.
Hormone
Not required for seeds; division may benefit from rooting hormone.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 months to germinate; division roots within 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, seed trays, misting bottle, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups due to low germination rates; use bottom heat for seeds; divide only when clumps are well-established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain vigor.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy; remove only necessary parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) if repotting is needed.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; infrequent repotting is preferred.
Checklist
Check root condition; use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning or late evening; ensure pot has drainage holes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, pine bark, or leaf mold to enhance acidity and organic matter; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or cessation of growth in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Insulate pots with bubble wrap; move indoors during frost; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer as directed; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (half-strength) every 4–6 weeks during spring-summer; avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOrthilia secunda is not toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects on felines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOrthilia secunda is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOrthilia secunda, commonly known as one-sided pyrola, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the common name of Orthilia secunda?
A: It is commonly known as One-sided Wintergreen.
Q: Does Orthilia secunda have any known toxicity to pets?
A: The toxicity to dogs and cats is currently unknown.
Q: What kind of care does Orthilia secunda require?
A: It requires moderate care, including specific soil conditions and partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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