Chimaphila umbellata Seeds | Prince’s Pine
LATIN NAME: Chimaphila umbellata
COMMON NAME: Prince’s Pine
Plant Profile
Prince’s Pine (Chimaphila umbellata) is a low, creeping, evergreen perennial. It slowly becomes an upright, leafy clump, reaching thirty to sixty centimetres. Grow it in full sun, with deep, fertile ground. In good conditions it grows to around Thirty to sixty centimetres. For the small amount of care it requires, the return is remarkable.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the Chimaphila group, Chimaphila umbellata is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Princes pine has a real and distinguished place in the research. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Prince’s Pine has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Ecologically, princes pine is a generous plant of woodland garden. Its small, waxy, white or pale-pink, nodding flowers feed bees and insects, and its glossy, evergreen leaves give a neat, low cover to shaded forest floor. After the first season it asks for very little beyond a place that suits it.
Pipsissewa was a popular Native American and pioneer tonic herb for urinary comfort, and it still flavors traditional root beers.
Growing from Seed
Starting Prince’s Pine from seed is simple and satisfying. Sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly into a loose, well-drained seed compost, water in gently, and keep the sowing in full sun with steady moisture. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Being a low, creeping, evergreen perennial, it asks for a permanent spot and repays it yearly. Prince”s Pine earns its space through character rather than fuss. Fresh seed sown into evenly moist compost is most of the battle won.
Related Reading
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