How much sun does Serrated-wintergreen need?

Serrated-wintergreen grows best in shade conditions.

When does Serrated-wintergreen bloom?

Serrated-wintergreen blooms in May, June, and July.

Where is Serrated-wintergreen native?

Serrated-wintergreen (Orthilia secunda) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Serrated-wintergreen attract?

Serrated-wintergreen draws bees and beetles.

Is Serrated-wintergreen HOA-friendly?

Serrated-wintergreen takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Serrated-wintergreen

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Orthilia secunda

Last reviewed: July 2026

Light

shade

Water

medium

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Sierra Nevada Central Basin and Range

Serrated-wintergreen is a low-growing native groundcover with glossy, toothed evergreen leaves arranged in small rosettes. In late spring and summer, it produces delicate white flower spikes that add subtle charm to shaded garden areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Serrated-wintergreen 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 stature may appear incomplete or sparse
Wild woodland appearance doesn't match typical landscaping expectations
Can be overlooked or mistaken for weeds due to diminutive size

Wildlife value

The small white flowers attract native bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. As a native understory plant, it provides year-round habitat for small wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Serrated-wintergreen need?: Serrated-wintergreen grows best in shade conditions.
When does Serrated-wintergreen bloom?: Serrated-wintergreen blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Serrated-wintergreen native?: Serrated-wintergreen (Orthilia secunda) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Serrated-wintergreen attract?: Serrated-wintergreen draws bees and beetles.
Is Serrated-wintergreen HOA-friendly?: Serrated-wintergreen 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 Serrated-wintergreen? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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