Spotted pipsissewa (Chimaphila maculata, Fl. Amer. Sept. 1: 300 (1813))

Family: Ericaceae

Author: (L.) Pursh

Bibliography: Fl. Amer. Sept. 1: 300 (1813)

Year: 1813

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Chimaphila

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Canada to C. America

Description

Spotted pipsissewa (Chimaphila maculata)

Spotted pipsissewa, known scientifically as Chimaphila maculata, is an intriguing perennial herb belonging to the Ericaceae family. First cataloged in the authoritative work “Flora America Septentrionalis” in 1813, this plant has fascinated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike for its unique characteristics and broad geographical range.

Description

The spotted pipsissewa is easily recognizable by its distinctive foliage. The leaves are evergreen, lanceolate and adorned with striking white or pale veins that give the plant its “spotted” moniker. Typically arranged in a whorl pattern around the stem, these leaves provide a striking contrast against the plant’s dark green backdrop.

During the blooming season, usually in the late spring to early summer, the pipsissewa produces delicate, nodding flowers. These blossoms are typically white to pale pink and are arranged in small clusters. Each flower consists of five rounded petals, giving it a charming, star-like appearance. The blossoms are also known for their subtle and pleasant fragrance.

Habitat and Distribution

Spotted pipsissewa is native to a diverse range of climates and terrains, flourishing from southeastern Canada down through Central America. It thrives in rich, acidic soils often found in shaded, woodland areas. The plant’s penchant for such environments means it often resides under the protective canopy of deciduous and mixed forests.

Ecological Importance

This plant plays an essential role in its ecosystem. As an evergreen perennial, it provides year-round ground cover which helps in soil stabilization and moisture retention. During its flowering period, the pipsissewa contributes to the ecological diversity by attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. After pollination, the plant produces small, dry capsules that disperse seeds, allowing new generations of pipsissewa to germinate and continue the cycle.

Historical and Traditional Uses

Historically, spotted pipsissewa has been recognized not only for its aesthetic value but also for its medicinal properties. Various indigenous tribes and early settlers used different parts of the plant for their purported health benefits. It was commonly prepared as a tea or tonic believed to treat ailments such as rheumatism, kidney issues, and general debility.

Conservation Status

Despite its widespread distribution, certain populations of Chimaphila maculata are experiencing pressures from habitat destruction, primarily due to urbanization and deforestation. Conservation efforts are paramount to ensure that this unique species continues to grace our forests and enriches biodiversity.

In conclusion, the spotted pipsissewa is a plant of remarkable beauty and ecological significance. Its distinctive appearance and vast range make it a subject of interest for botanists, ecologists, and nature lovers alike. The continued appreciation and conservation of this plant are essential to maintaining the ecological balance and natural heritage of the regions it inhabits.

Common Names

Fra: pirole tachetée, chimaphile maculée
Eng: spotted pipsissewa, spotted-wintergreen, striped prince’s pine, striped prince’s-pine, spotted wintergreen, mottled pipsissewa, striped prince’s-plume
En: Spotted pipsissewa, Spotted-wintergreen, Striped prince’s-pine, Striped prince’s pine, Striped pipsissewa, Spotted wintergreen, Mottled pipsissewa, Striped prince’s-plume
Fr: Pirole tachetée, Chimaphile maculée, Chimaphile

Synonyms

• Chimaphila maculata var. dasystemma ((Torr. ex Rydb.) Kearney & Peebles)
• Pyrola maculata (L.)
• Chimaphila guatemalensis (Rydb.)
• Chimaphila maculata var. acuminata (Lange)
• Chimaphila acuminata ((Lange) Rydb.)
• Chimaphila dasystemma (Torr. ex Rydb.)
• Pseva maculata ((L.) Kuntze)
• Pyrola durandii (Raf.)
• Chimaphila maculata subsp. kochii (Andres)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arizona (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Costa Rica (native)
• Delaware (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• El Salvador (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Maine (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• Nicaragua (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Panamá (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• France (introduced)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Fruit

Taken Jul 3, 2017 by Hannah Renner (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 14, 2022 by Corrine Marshall (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2018 by Kristi Reynolds (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 28, 2019 by Emilio Herrero (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 14, 2021 by Ron Notvest (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 27, 2020 by memull (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2019 by john Crescenzo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 18, 2019 by Nancy Schiano (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 18, 2019 by Nancy Schiano (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 13, 2015 by EOL − Robert L Curtis (cc-by-nc-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 16, 2021 by Jeremy Jeremy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 16, 2022 by allisorusrex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 14, 2021 by Dev C (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 11, 2022 by Evan Oellerich (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 28, 2022 by Kennedy Brinson (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 5, 2020 by Serena boettcher (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 6, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Nov 3, 2015 by EOL − Tomas Curtis (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 30, 2015 by EOL − dpatrick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 28, 2016 by EOL − Jonathan Carpenter (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 21, 2021 by CLARICE AMBROSE (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 30, 2018 by Jackson Gordo (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Sep 9, 2020 by not the bread (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2020 by caitlin (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 15, 1999 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 12, 2022 by Mary Beard (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 7, 2021 by guinnevere lowe (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2888304)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:327557-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Chimaphila maculata (L.) Pursh)

Specifications

Growth habit: Subshrub

Growth

Ph maximum: 6.5

Ph minimum: 5.5

Light: 4

Atmospheric humidity: 6

Soil nutriments: 2