Orthilia secunda, commonly known as Sidebells Wintergreen or One-sided Wintergreen, is a perennial herb that is mixotrophic, meaning it can obtain energy both through photosynthesis and from symbiotic fungi in the soil. It is native to the cool temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia, where it typically grows in the understory of moist, shady coniferous and mixed forests. This plant is often found in acidic soils rich in organic matter, such as those covered with decaying leaf litter.

Sidebells Wintergreen is characterized by its slender, unbranched stems reaching up to 30 cm tall, with a distinctive arrangement of small, greenish-white, bell-shaped flowers that droop from one side of the stem, blooming from late spring to early summer. The leaves are evergreen, broad, and leathery, providing year-round ground cover. In cultivation, it is valued for its low maintenance, shade tolerance, and subtle beauty, making it suitable for woodland gardens and naturalized areas. It requires consistently moist soil, prefers partial to full shade, and is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it is slow-growing and may be outcompeted by more aggressive plants if not managed properly. Sidebells Wintergreen is not commonly used in mainstream horticulture but is of interest for its medicinal properties, as it has been traditionally used by indigenous peoples for various ailments.CC BY-SA 4.0