Shiny-leaved Wintergreen
pyrola picta
Also known as: ["Shiny Wintergreen","Green-white Wintergreen"]
Overview
A small, evergreen herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its glossy leaves and white, nodding flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Pyrola |
| Botanical Name: | Pyrola picta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded understory
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- 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; resembles forest floor conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Shade to partial shade (dappled light); 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or bright indirect light. Avoid direct afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light if moving from deep shade; protect from harsh midday sun; ideal for understory garden or north-facing indoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Use sheer curtains to filter light; place in a shaded garden bed; rotate plant occasionally for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormancy
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots dry out completely; use rainwater or distilled water if possible.
Soil
moist, acidic, humus-rich soil
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0
Use acidic soil amendments; maintain consistent moisture; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Prefers cooler conditions and can tolerate mild frosts.
Keep away from heat sources; maintain consistent cool temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3–4 months with diluted balanced fertilizer
Use a fertilizer low in phosphorus; apply in early morning; 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.
- Plant immediately in prepared medium.
- Water thoroughly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins or after flowering.
Environment
Cool, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix with peat moss and perlite; can also be propagated in a cold frame outdoors.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seeds to improve germination rates.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; Seeds: germination in 1–3 months, establishment in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or spade, gloves, pots or planting beds
Quick Tips
Divide only when necessary; keep newly divided plants shaded; maintain consistent moisture for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; remove spent flower stalks to encourage new growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruners, gloves
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead foliage; cut just above a leaf node; clean up debris
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Use a pot only one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years. Pyrola picta prefers being slightly pot-bound.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; water lightly; place in appropriate light
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; avoid leaf wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Avoid wetting leaves directly to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on humidity and rainfall.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to increase organic matter and acidity; ensure good drainage with perlite or sand.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing for extended periods.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessively warm conditions.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Dilute fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPyrola picta is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPyrola picta is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPyrola picta, commonly known as painted wintergreen, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impacts when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pyrola picta toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.
Q: Does Pyrola picta require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial to full shade.
Q: How often should Pyrola picta be watered?
A: It prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil, so water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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