Orthilia secunda
serrated wintergreen
A delicate, uncommon, native woodlander found mainly in northern Scotland. It spreads through creeping rhizomes, gradually forming groups of dark green leaf rosettes. In summer, produces small, greenish-white, bell-shaped flowers, hanging to one side of a curved, 10-20cm stem
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Found naturally on damp, rocky ledges and in coniferous woods, often in association with heather and bilberry. Needs cool, moist, shady conditions and humus-rich, acid soil
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by division once well-established
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Rock garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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