Sidebells Wintergreen

Orthilia secunda

Physical Characteristics

Orthilia secunda is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Iceland south and east to the Pyrenees and Asia. N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Tea Seed[172]. No more details are given. The leaves are occasionally used as a tea[183].

Medicinal Uses

Ophthalmic A strong decoction of the root has been used as an eye wash[257].

Known Hazards

None known