Native Habitat:
Moist, shaded forests, bogs, and subalpine meadows in western North America, including the Willamette Valley. Prefers acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter.
 
Bloom Time:
June – August
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Low-growing, creeping perennial shrub, 2–6 inches tall, forming mats of trailing stems with small, rounded leaves. Produces pairs of fragrant, bell-shaped pink to lavender flowers on short stalks.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Partial to full shade; thrives in moist, acidic, humus-rich soils. Prefers consistently damp, well-drained conditions.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Polystichum munitum, Tolmiea menziesii, Athyrium filix-femina, Adiantum pedatum, Camassia leichtlinii.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides delicate groundcover, fragrant seasonal flowers, and layered texture in shaded urban gardens, woodland-inspired landscapes, and naturalized plantings. Works well as an understory plant beneath trees and shrubs, enhancing woodland habitat and aesthetic appeal.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract small native bees and flies. Dense mats provide shelter for insects, invertebrates, and small ground-dwelling wildlife.
 
Historical Use:
Used by Indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes and valued ornamentally in shaded, woodland-inspired gardens.