Pink Wintergreen (Pyrola asarifolia Michx.) is classified as Threatened and Endangered by USDA. It is particularly endangered in Illinois. It is found primarily on forest margins at mid latitude in the Pacific Northwest. It is so named simply because its leaves maintain their green color through winter. Wintergreen is a low-growing wildflower with shiny evergreen leaves. Leaves on its stem come our of the plant’s base and are oval, with smooth margins and a shiny, leathery appearance. It bears small white flowers in July and August followed by bright red berries that often persist through winter. The flowers are numerous, bell-shaped, and attached to the upper half of a leafless central stalk. Wintergreen has a variety of uses as a food.
Wintergreen also serves as food for wildlife. Several bird species, such as Wild Turkey, Ring-necked Pheasant, and Ruffed Grouse. Fruit, buds, and leaves are consumed. One of White-tailed Deer’s important winter food is wintergreen. Other wildlife such as American Black Bears, White-footed Mice, Deer Mice, Red Squirrels, and Red foxes also consume wintergreen as 2% of their diet.
Sources:
