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One-flowered Wintergreen

Moneses uniflora

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Ericales
Family:
Ericaceae (Heath)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
30 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Bogs, gardens, woodland.

Flower:
֍
White, 5 petals
 
White, cup-shaped flowers. 8 to 10 yellow stamens. Each plant is one-flowered. Insect pollinated.
Fruit:
The fruit is a capsule, about 8mm wide.
Leaves:
An evergreen perennial flower with pale green, roundish leaves. The leaves are in opposite pairs. Can be found in pine woods.
Other Names:
One-flowered Pyrola, Single Delight, St Olaf's Candlestick.
Frequency (UK):
Rarely seen  

Other Information

Summary

Moneses uniflora, commonly known as one-flowered wintergreen or one-flowered pyrola, is a species of perennial herb in the heath family. It is native to Europe and Asia, typically found in damp, shady areas such as woods and bogs. It has small, white, urn-shaped flowers that bloom in the summer and glossy, dark green, oval-shaped leaves. It is also used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases, and the plant is known for its medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens.

Blog

One-flowered Wintergreen (Moneses uniflora), also known as “single delight”, is a unique and beautiful wildflower native to North America and Asia. It is a member of the heath family (Ericaceae) and is known for its delicate and fragrant flowers that bloom in late spring.

The plant grows to be about 6-12 inches tall and is typically found in damp, shady woods and forests. The leaves are evergreen, oval-shaped and have a glossy, dark green appearance. The delicate flowers are white or pinkish in color, about 1 inch in diameter, and have five petals. The plant is named "One-flowered" Wintergreen because each stem typically only produces one flower.

One-flowered Wintergreen is often used in wildflower gardens and rock gardens due to its attractive appearance and fragrance. The plant is also popular in landscaping, as it provides a unique contrast to other wildflowers and plants in the area. The plant is low maintenance, and it grows well in moist and well-draining soils.

Aside from its ornamental value, One-flowered Wintergreen has several medicinal properties. The plant has been used by indigenous people for various ailments, such as toothaches and headaches. The plant contains an essential oil that has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

One-flowered Wintergreen is a unique and beautiful wildflower that is valued for its delicate fragrance and attractive appearance. It is a low maintenance plant that can be easily incorporated into gardens and landscapes, and it also has several medicinal properties.

One-flowered Wintergreen is a slow-growing plant that prefers cool temperatures, making it ideal for regions with cool summers. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-7, and can withstand winter temperatures as low as -40°F.

The plant is also popular with wildlife, as it provides food and habitat for various species of birds, insects, and mammals. The flowers are a source of nectar for bees and butterflies, while the leaves and stems provide food for wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and squirrels.

One-flowered Wintergreen is also an important plant for forest ecology, as it helps to protect and maintain the soil in forested areas. The plant's deep roots help to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion, while also adding organic matter to the soil.

While One-flowered Wintergreen is not considered threatened or endangered, it is important to protect and preserve wild populations of the plant. Over-harvesting and habitat destruction are the main threats to the survival of the species. Gardeners and wildflower enthusiasts can help by planting One-flowered Wintergreen in their own gardens and landscapes, and by protecting and preserving natural habitats.

One-flowered Wintergreen is a unique and valuable plant that provides both ornamental and ecological benefits. Its delicate flowers and attractive appearance make it a popular choice for wildflower gardens and landscapes, while its important role in forest ecology makes it an important plant to protect and preserve.

One-flowered Wintergreen is also a culturally significant plant for indigenous people in North America. The plant has been used for its medicinal properties by various Native American tribes, who used it to treat various ailments, such as headaches, toothaches, and digestive problems.

The plant has also been used as a traditional food source by indigenous people, who used the leaves and stems as a source of vitamin C. The leaves and stems have a slightly sweet and spicy flavor, similar to that of wintergreen, and can be used in various dishes and teas.

In recent years, One-flowered Wintergreen has become increasingly popular in the aromatherapy and natural beauty industries, as the essential oil derived from the plant is believed to have various benefits for the skin and mind. The oil is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, as well as being a natural mood-booster and stress-reliever.

In order to cultivate One-flowered Wintergreen in your garden, it is important to choose a location with cool temperatures and well-draining soil. The plant prefers damp, shady conditions, and it is best planted in the spring or fall. It is important to avoid over-watering the plant, as this can lead to root rot.

In conclusion, One-flowered Wintergreen is a valuable and versatile plant that has various cultural, medicinal, and ecological benefits. Whether you are a wildflower enthusiast, a gardener, or simply looking to improve your health and well-being, One-flowered Wintergreen is a plant that is well worth considering.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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