Oconee bells are a rare wildflower commonly found in the Appalachian Mountains growing along streams. They have white to pinkish blooms that show in the early spring. These plants are also often used as a ground cover in many gardens.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Shortia galacifolia, the Oconee bells or acony bell, is a rare North American plant in the family Diapensiaceae found in the southern Appalachian Mountains, concentrated in the tri-state border region of Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Additional populations (some of them naturalized) have been found in Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia, and Massachusetts. Shortia galacifolia has also been reported in Japan, as have three other species of Shortia.
Creamy-white flowers appear from late March to May. Seedlings appear in late July and early August. This is about 6 weeks after the maturation of the capsule.
Stolons have shallow roots. It prefers loamy soil with some sand and/or clay. It prefers areas where the annual rainfall is 140–200 centimeters (55–79 in). Plants can tolerate bright light for only 2–3 hours per day at midday. The leaves have an orbicular shape with wavy edges plus a heart-shaped base. Seeds are slender and oval, with a light to medium brown color. Young plants are usually within 1.5 meters (4.9 ft) of mature plants, but have been found as far away as 6 meters (20 ft). The stalks grow 13–15 centimeters (5–6 in) high and the plants prefer shade and soils with a high humus content.
Within its small range, S. galacifolia is invariably found along rivers and in gorges where the land is sloping and shows evidence of natural or man-made disturbance: mud slides, erosion, trees knocked down by wind, logging, etc. Shortia galacifolia often forms a dense mat that may prevent seeds of other species from embedding in the soil and germinating. Its decayed vegetative matter may also have a toxic effect on other species. Consequently, it is often found as the only or one of few species of ground cover in a given area. It is found at elevations from 185–625 meters (607–2,051 ft). The pattern of elevation distribution varies widely from one watershed to another.
Tree species and genera commonly associated with S. galacifolia are: Tsuga canadensis (eastern hemlock), Betula lenta (sweet birch), Acer rubrum (red maple), Liriodendron tulipifera (yellow poplar), Liquidambar styraciflua (sweetgum), and Fagus (beech genus). It is less commonly seen with: Quercus prinus (chestnut oak), Quercus alba (white oak), Pinus strobus (eastern white pine), Oxydendrum (sourwood), and Robinia (locust tree). Common understory species include Rhododendron maximum (greater rhododendron) in moister conditions and Kalmia latifolia (mountain laurel) in drier conditions.
Several factors have made S. galacifolia an endemic relict species. It reproduces successfully only in disturbed areas. Light and soil conditions that are beneficial to S. galacifolia change to its detriment as forest canopy and understory get re-established.
Shortia galacifolia has been successfully cultivated as far north as Grand-Métis, Quebec.
II. How to Grow and Care
Oconee bells requires precise conditions akin to its native habitat to thrive, making it a challenging plant for the average gardener. Key care points include maintaining consistently moist, well-drained acidic soil and providing partial to full shade. As a special care point, protection from harsh winter conditions and careful attention to watering without waterlogging are pivotal to prevent root rot and to mimic the cool, forested environments oconee bells favors.
Sunlight
Oconee bells thrives in partial sun conditions, where gentle, filtered light promotes its robust growth and health. Ideally, oconee bells should receive a balanced mix of shade and light, avoiding the harsh effects of midday sun. This species demonstrates notable tolerance to full shade, though such low light exposure may result in leggier growth and fewer blooms.
Outdoors, oconee bells prefers a sheltered spot with dappled sunlight, such as beneath deciduous trees where light fluctuates naturally. While it can adapt to less-than-ideal light conditions, maintaining optimal light levels ensures a vigorous display of oconee bells’s distinctive foliage and flowers.
Watering
Thriving in the moist, shaded environments of its native woodland habitat, oconee bells has adapted to consistent moisture levels, indicative of a preference for regular hydration without being waterlogged. Its watering habits are balanced, requiring moisture that mimics the forest floor’s natural dampness. Accordingly, oconee bells benefits from watering every week to maintain this equilibrium. As an understory plant often found beneath forest canopies, oconee bells is more commonly grown outdoors where it can enjoy similar conditions to its native setting. This species thrives when mulched with organic matter which helps retain soil moisture and emulates the leaf litter of its natural environment.
Soil
Oconee bells performs best in organically rich, acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Do not let the soil dry out in the warm summer months. Provide a light layer of fine mulch in the spring that will keep the roots protected and add nutrients to the soil.
Fertilizing
For optimal growth, oconee bells needs a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) applied sparingly in spring as it breaks dormancy. Frequency should be once monthly during the growing season. Excessive fertilization can harm oconee bells, so use a quarter-strength solution. Avoid fall to prevent new growth that could be damaged by frost. Perform a soil test annually to adjust the fertilization regime. Gradual-release formulas are beneficial, providing consistent nutrients without overfeeding. Always water oconee bells after applying fertilizer to help absorption and prevent root burn.
Propagation
To propagate oconee bells, division is the most practical method, ideal for expanding existing clusters or sharing with fellow gardeners. Carefully separate the rhizomes, ensuring that each division has several healthy roots and leaf shoots for optimal growth. Once separated, replant these divisions in well-draining, acidic soil rich in organic matter, and maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. A shaded or part-shade location mimics oconee bells’s natural woodland habitat, providing the conditions necessary for a successful establishment.
Transplanting
Oconee bells flourish when transplanting is accomplished during the tranquil season of late winter to early spring (S2-S3). This is a time when growth is slow, reducing transplant shock. Ideally, locate oconee bells in a sheltered spot with well-draining soil. Avoid disturbance after relocation for stronger roots.
III. Uses and Benefits
Oconee bells is perfect for woodland gardens, as a groundcover, or underplanting shrubs.
