Pipsissewa
Chimaphila umbellata
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Pipsissewa as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pipsissewa is a low-growing evergreen groundcover with glossy, dark green leaves and delicate white to pink flowers that bloom in summer. This woodland native forms small colonies and maintains its attractive foliage year-round, making it an excellent choice for shaded areas where other plants struggle.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pipsissewa takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very small size makes it nearly invisible in landscaping
- Woodland appearance looks wild rather than cultivated
- Spreads in irregular patches that lack formal structure
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract native bees and beetles, providing nectar during the peak growing season. The evergreen foliage offers year-round shelter for small wildlife and ground-dwelling insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Pipsissewa need?
- Pipsissewa grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Pipsissewa bloom?
- Pipsissewa blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Pipsissewa native?
- Pipsissewa (Chimaphila umbellata) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Pipsissewa toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Pipsissewa as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Pipsissewa attract?
- Pipsissewa draws bees and beetles.
- Is Pipsissewa HOA-friendly?
- Pipsissewa takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Pipsissewa? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz