Orthilia Secunda

Description

Orthilia Secunda, commonly known as one-sided wintergreen, is a small perennial plant that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to North America, Europe, and Asia and prefers to grow in moist and acidic soil. The plant can grow up to 15 cm tall and has small white or pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The leaves are dark green and glossy with a slightly serrated edge. The fruit is a small red berry that ripens in late summer to early fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Orthilia Secunda has dark green and glossy leaves that are ovate to lanceolate in shape. The leaves are around 1-3 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm wide. The plant has small white or pink flowers that grow in a one-sided raceme. The flowers are around 5 mm in diameter and have four petals. The plant produces small, bright red berries that are around 4-6 mm in diameter. The berries contain numerous small seeds.

Care Guide

Water

Orthilia Secunda prefers moist soil and needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, the plant should not be overwatered as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help improve the plant’s health.

Soil

Orthilia Secunda prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.

Sunlight

The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate direct sunlight for a few hours during the day.

Hardiness Zones

Orthilia Secunda is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Orthilia Secunda can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. It can also be affected by pests such as aphids and spider mites. To prevent these issues, it is recommended to keep the plant’s environment clean and to prune any infected or damaged leaves.

Habitat

Orthilia Secunda is commonly found in coniferous and deciduous forests, as well as in wetlands and bogs. It prefers to grow in moist and acidic soil and can be found at elevations up to 3000 meters.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Orthilia Secunda edible?

A: While the plant’s fruit is technically edible, it is not commonly consumed by humans and is instead a food source for birds and small mammals.

Q: Can Orthilia Secunda be grown indoors?

A: While it is possible to grow Orthilia Secunda indoors, it is not recommended as the plant prefers a cool and moist environment.

Q: How often should Orthilia Secunda be fertilized?

A: Orthilia Secunda does not require frequent fertilization. Adding a slow-release fertilizer once a year during the growing season is sufficient.

Q: Can Orthilia Secunda tolerate drought?

A: No, Orthilia Secunda prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate prolonged periods of drought.

Related Plants

• Pyrola Asarifolia
• Pyrola Chlorantha
• Pyrola Elliptica
• Pyrola Minor

References

• “Orthilia Secunda.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277078&isprofile=0&basic=orthilia%20secunda.
• “Orthilia Secunda.” PlantFiles. Accessed October 14, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/180801/.
• “Orthilia Secunda.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed October 14, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/25662/Orthilia-secunda/Details.