Spotted wintergreen
Chimaphila maculata · Ericaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant spotted wintergreen: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, dark green spotted with white
- Flowering
- June to August, white or pale pink flowers
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15 °C
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Acidic, rich in organic matter
- Light
- Partial shade to shade
Care
Ideal Light Exposure
Spotted wintergreen thrives in partial shade or under tree cover. It dislikes direct sunlight and overly warm exposures. A cool, humid environment suits it perfectly.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering during the growing season is essential. In winter, reduce watering without letting the substrate dry out completely.
Soil Preparation
Choose acidic soil rich in organic matter, similar to forest floor conditions. Incorporate leaf mold or peat to improve drainage and acidity. Adding perlite can also promote aeration.
Fertilizing
Light fertilizing in spring is generally sufficient. Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer, as this plant has modest nutrient requirements. Avoid excess feeding that could damage its fine roots.
Pruning and Maintenance
No strict pruning needed. Simply remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain a nice shape. Respect its natural compact, spreading form.
Diseases and Pests
Spotted wintergreen is generally hardy. Monitor humidity conditions: excess moisture can promote rot. Watch for spider mites in overly dry atmospheres.
Did you know?
Spotted wintergreen gets its name from its characteristic leaves adorned with white and cream spots, like natural brushwork. In North America, indigenous peoples traditionally used it for its recognized medicinal properties. It's a partial saprophyte that benefits from underground symbiotic relationships with fungi for better nutrient absorption.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.