Pyrola media
Pyrola media · Ericaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant pyrola media: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- June to August
- Mature size
- 20 to 40 cm tall
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Temperate and boreal regions of Europe and Asia
- Soil type
- Acidic, humus-rich, well-drained
Care
Light
Pyrola media thrives in partial shade or light shade, in woodland or under vegetation cover. Avoid direct sun, which dries out the delicate foliage. An environment with filtered light is ideal for good flowering.
Soil and substrate
This plant prefers acidic, organic-rich soil that is well-drained. Enrich your substrate with peat or decomposed leaves to recreate its natural forest habitat. Consistent soil moisture is preferable, but without waterlogging.
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during growth and flowering. Water with soft or rainwater, as this plant is sensitive to lime. Gradually reduce watering in autumn.
Fertilizing
Apply weak-strength fertilizer in spring, suited to acidic-soil plants. An organic diluted fertilizer is preferable to concentrated formulas that may burn the fine roots.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is necessary; this plant develops naturally in a compact form. Simply remove spent flowers to encourage a second flush of blooms. Gently clear organic debris around the base.
Diseases and pests
Pyrola media is generally robust. Watch for excess moisture, which can promote root rot. Good drainage and adequate air circulation prevent most fungal problems.
Did you know?
Pyrola media is a mycorrhizal plant that depends on a partnership with underground fungi to absorb nutrients; without these forest soil fungi, it cannot survive. Due to this ecological specialization, it is extremely difficult to grow in pots and strongly prefers to remain in its natural forest environment, where it forms elegant clusters of pale pink flowers.
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
- CowberryVaccinium vitis-idaea
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- Bog rosemaryAndromeda polifolia
- BearberryArctostaphylos uva-ursi
- Strawberry treeArbutus unedo
- Tree HeathErica arborea
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.