Shortia galacifolia

Common Names

Oconee Bells, Shortia, Acony Bells, Southern Shortia

Summary

Shortia galacifolia, commonly called Oconee Bells, is a rare evergreen perennial native to the southern Appalachian Mountains in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. It forms a low groundcover by spreading with short runners, bearing round, glossy dark green leaves 1–3 inches long with a heart-shaped base and pale venation. In early spring, solitary white to pinkish bell-shaped flowers rise on reddish stalks, with five frilled petals, and the plant grows about 4–6 inches tall and wide, creating a delicate carpet in shaded woodland sites. Prefers shaded, moist, acidic humus-rich soils with good drainage and even moisture; avoid drying conditions. Propagation is easiest by division; seed propagation is possible but slower and more challenging. Hardy in USDA zones 5–9, Shortia galacifolia is commonly grown as a woodland ground cover or in shady borders, with minimal pest or disease issues.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

4-8 inches

Spread

4-9 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5–7

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Partial Shade. Tolerates Full Shade.

Soil Type

Acidic, loamy, humus-rich soil that is well-drained and consistently moist.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil that remains consistently moist, loamy, humus-rich, acidic.

Soil pH

Below 6.0 (acidic)

Bloom Color

White, with occasional pale pink or pale blue variants

Bloom Time

Spring (mid-March to mid-April)

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow

Seasons of Interest

Spring

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, attracts other pollinators, attracts birds