Greenflowered wintergreen
Pyrola chlorantha · Ericaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant greenflowered wintergreen: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- June to August
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20 °C)
- Origin
- Temperate and boreal northern hemisphere
- Soil type
- Acidic, humus-rich, well-draining
Care
Light
Greenish pyrola prefers partial shade to full shade, typically under forest cover. It dislikes direct sun and overly exposed positions. A partly shaded environment with dappled light is ideal for its development.
Soil and substrate
This plant requires acidic, organic-rich and well-draining soil. It grows best in heather compost or peat-based mixes. Thick forest humus promotes its establishment and longevity.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but without waterlogging. Water regularly during dry periods, especially in summer. A slightly humid atmosphere and gentle rainfall benefit it more than abundant and irregular watering.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is needed. Pyrola benefits more from an annual application of compost or composted bark on the soil surface. Avoid mineral fertilizers, which can disrupt its balance.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is required. Simply remove spent flowers if desired to maintain appearance. Let the plant develop naturally in its low herbaceous form.
Diseases and pests
Greenish pyrola is generally robust. In conditions of excessive moisture, watch for root rot and mold. Maintain good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent any fungal issues.
Did you know?
Greenish pyrola maintains a little-known symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi in forest soil. This association allows it to absorb nutrients from poor acidic soil, explaining why it stubbornly refuses to grow outside its natural environment, even in the best growing conditions.
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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- BearberryArctostaphylos uva-ursi
- Strawberry treeArbutus unedo
- Tree HeathErica arborea
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.