Shortia galacifolia, commonly known as Oconee bells, is a perennial herb native to the moist, humus-rich soils of cool, shaded slopes and stream banks in the southern Appalachian Mountains, particularly in the tri-state border region of Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. It is often found in the understory of mixed deciduous and evergreen forests, where it forms dense mats. This plant typically grows to a height of 3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm) with a similar spread. The leaves are evergreen, glossy, and round to heart-shaped, providing year-round interest.

Oconee bells bloom in late March to May, producing delicate, nodding, creamy-white flowers with a yellow center, which are quite showy despite the plant’s rarity. The flowers are followed by seed capsules that mature in late July to early August. In cultivation, Oconee bells are valued for their attractive foliage and spring flowers, and they are used in shade gardens, woodland gardens, and as ground cover. They require consistently moist, well-drained, acidic soil and thrive in part shade, with a few hours of bright light daily. While not commonly available due to its rarity, it is sometimes cultivated by specialty native plant nurseries. Care should be taken to avoid overwatering and to protect it from intense midday sun. Potential problems include root rot in poorly drained soils and leaf spot diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0