Gaywings

Chamaebuxus paucifolia

Native to:
Canada, United States, Virgin Islands

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Polygalaceae
Genus:
Chamaebuxus
Species:
Chamaebuxus paucifolia
USDA Symbol:
POPA5

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
30 cm
Light Requirements:
Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
yellow, white
Ground Cover:
Yes
Evergreen Shrub:
Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, sandy loam soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
prefers rocky or gravelly substrates

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
30–60 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 60-90 days to break dormancy.

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).; then Cold-moist stratification for 60 days.

Source: Claude AI