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Description
Pyrola Chlorantha, also known as green-flowered wintergreen or green-flowered pyrola, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Ericaceae. It is native to northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant has a rosette of basal leaves and a single stem that can grow up to 30 cm tall. The stem is usually reddish-brown and slightly hairy. The flowers are greenish-white or creamy-white and grow in a raceme at the top of the stem. The plant blooms from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Pyrola |
Appearance
The basal leaves of Pyrola Chlorantha are round or oval, about 3-6 cm long, and shiny dark green. The flowers are small, about 5-8 mm in diameter, and have five petals that are fused at the base. The petals are greenish-white or creamy-white and have a waxy texture. The stamens and pistil are also white. The plant has a pleasant fragrance, especially at night. The fruit is a capsule that splits open to release numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Pyrola Chlorantha is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can use a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring if you want to encourage growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers acidic, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is not acidic, you can add peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate dappled sunlight. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Pyrola Chlorantha can grow in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pyrola Chlorantha is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. You can control them by using slug bait or creating a barrier around the plant with copper tape.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. Remove the affected leaves and dispose of them to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Root rot: This disease can occur if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. Make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Pyrola Chlorantha is commonly found in coniferous and deciduous forests, bogs, and wet meadows. It prefers cool and moist environments and can grow at elevations up to 3000 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pyrola Chlorantha edible?
A: While the plant is not toxic, it is not commonly consumed by humans or animals.
Q: Can Pyrola Chlorantha be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Q: How long does it take for Pyrola Chlorantha to bloom?
A: The plant blooms from June to August, depending on the location and climate.
Q: Can Pyrola Chlorantha be used for medicinal purposes?
A: While the plant has been used in traditional medicine, there is not enough scientific evidence to support its medicinal properties.
Related Plants
- Pyrola asarifolia
- Pyrola elliptica
- Pyrola minor
- Pyrola uniflora
References
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Pyrola chlorantha Swartz. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250094466
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Pyrola chlorantha. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j120
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Pyrola chlorantha Sw. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PYCH2
