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Chimaphila umbellata
Also called Prince's Pine — a low evergreen sub-shrub of conifer forests, with whorls of glossy lance-shaped toothed leaves and umbels of waxy pink nodding flowers on short stems. Traditional medicinal use for urinary complaints (where its flavour 'pipsisseway' — 'it breaks into pieces' — refers to its use to dissolve kidney stones). Slow-growing; do not harvest wild.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Boreal, Foothills conifer forests, Zone 2
Light
Deep to part shade
Bloom Time
June–Aug
Soil
Acidic, humus-rich forest floor with intact mycorrhizae
Water
Moderate
Pet Safe— Generally considered safe around pets.
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Very difficult — requires mycorrhizal partners. Source only from specialist nurseries, not wild.
