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pipsissewa
Scientific Name: Chimaphila umbellata ssp. cisatlantica
Family: Pyrolaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: IN (pipsissewa)
Umbellate Wintergreen (Chimaphila umbellata)
Also known as Pipsissewa or Prince's Pine, Chimaphila umbellata is a fascinating perennial flowering plant with a rich history of traditional uses.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant is sometimes referred to as a "shrub", suggesting a potentially woody structure.
- The plant is described as having "jagged, leathery leaves", which may be a textural consideration.
Scientific Classification 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 (also mentioned as Pyrolaceae)
- Synonyms: Mentions Chimaphila maculata (Spotted Wintergreen) as a similar species with related common names like Rheumatism Root, Dragon's Tongue, and Spotted Wintergreen.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Grows in dry woodlands, sandy soils, and shady, wooded areas.
- Found throughout much of southern Canada and the northern United States.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Evergreen shrub growing to approximately 0.4 meters (1ft 4in) tall and 0.5 meters (1ft 8in) wide.
- Slow-growing.
- Perennial with a creeping, white rootstock that produces angular stems, typically 6-12 inches tall.
- Leaves are evergreen and leathery.
- Features nodding flowers with white to pink petals, typically 3 to 7 in number.
Traditional Uses
- Historically used by Native Americans for thousands of years.
- Recommended by herbalists as a remedy for nervous disorders, diarrhea, fluid retention, fluid loss, seizures, sores, and ulcers.
- Used by native peoples to treat urinary tract issues.
- Farmers of Appalachia would add it to horse feed.
- Leaves were formerly used as a tonic and diuretic.
Quirky Facts
- The text mentions that Pipsissewa was the first plant someone "heard" while awake, suggesting an interesting personal experience or connection with the plant.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Has specific mycorrhizal associations. These must be retained for the plant to thrive.
Further Resources
- WebMD (for patient medical information).
- Dave's Garden (for gardening tips and ideas).
- Collins English Dictionary (for definitions).