SafePlants

Umbellate Wintergreen (Chimaphila umbellata)

Chimaphila umbellata, commonly known as Umbellate Wintergreen, Pipsissewa, or Prince's Pine, is a small perennial evergreen plant appreciated for its historical medicinal uses and attractive appearance in woodland gardens.

Considerations for Pets

• This is an evergreen shrub that may be appealing to pets.

Considerations for Children

• As a small plant found in woodlands and gardens, children may encounter it during outdoor activities.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chimaphila umbellata (L.) W.P.C. Barton
• Common Names: Umbellate Wintergreen, Pipsissewa, Prince's Pine, fragrant wintergreen, ground holly, king's cure, noble prince's-pine
• Family: Ericaceae (or Pyrolaceae, as it is sometimes classified)
• Synonyms: The text also mentions Chimaphila maculata (Spotted Wintergreen) as a similar species.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to North America, Europe, and Asia.
• Found in dry woodlands, sandy soils, and shady areas.
• Common in southern Canada and the northern United States.
• Also noted in the Carolinas.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Evergreen shrub growing to approximately 0.4 meters (1 ft 4 in) in height and 0.5 meters (1 ft 8 in) in spread.
• Perennial with a creeping, white rootstock that produces several angular stems.
• Leaves are evergreen.
• Produces flowers with 3 to 7 nodding 0.75-inch flowers, with 5 white to pink petals and 10 stamens.
• Grows at a slow rate.

Traditional Uses

• Historically used by Native Americans for thousands of years.
• Farmers of Appalachia would harvest and dry Pipsissewa to add to horse feed.
• Recommended by herbalists as a remedy for nervous disorders, diarrhea, fluid retention, fluid loss, seizures, sores, and ulcers.
• Leaves have been used medicinally as a tonic and diuretic.

Quirky Facts

• One person recalls "hearing" Pipsissewa while awake, indicating a strong connection to the plant's presence.
• Pipsissewa was believed to improve a horse's coat when added to its feed, making it "frolicking."

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Has specific mycorrhizal associations, which are crucial for the plant's survival.

Further Information

• WebMD provides patient medical information.
• Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens.
• Collins English Dictionary provides definitions.