Carolina grass of parnassus (Parnassia caroliniana)

Also known as: Carolina Grass-Of-Parnassus

The basal leaves are characterized by their rounded to oval shapes with long petioles, while the stem leaves are heart-shaped and clasp the stem at their bases. The plant features solitary flowers with five deeply veined white petals, which can be over 2 cm long. Each flower contains five stamens with yellow anthers, and five three-parted staminodes. The fruit is a capsule.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Carolina grass of parnassus

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

0 mm to 91 cm

Spread

Not Applicable

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-3 cm

Flower Color

White with green veins

Images of Carolina grass of parnassus

Quickly Identify Carolina grass of parnassus

Look for its distinctive white, star-shaped flowers with five petals and green veins. The leaves are rounded or heart-shaped, growing from the base of the plant.

Scientific Classification of Carolina grass of parnassus

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Celastrales

Family

Bittersweet

Genus

Bog-Stars

Species

Carolina grass of parnassus

Planting and Growing of Carolina grass of parnassus

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Carolina grass of parnassus?

When watering Parnassia caroliniana, aim for about 200 milliliters per session. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure the water is evenly distributed to avoid dry pockets, and let excess water drain to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Carolina grass of parnassus? ›

What should I do if my Carolina grass of parnassus is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Carolina grass of parnassus? ›

How to save an overwatered Carolina grass of parnassus? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Carolina grass of parnassus?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours

Partial sun, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily, supports optimal growth and flowering in Parnassia caroliniana. Balanced light exposure contributes to vibrant leaf color, robust stems, and timely blooming cycles.

What type of sunlight does Parnassia caroliniana need? ›

How can you ensure Parnassia caroliniana gets ideal light? ›

What benefits does ideal light offer Parnassia caroliniana? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Carolina grass of parnassus?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Parnassia caroliniana typically falls between 60-75°F. This range ensures optimal growth, as it allows the plant to efficiently photosynthesize and absorb nutrients. When temperatures are maintained within this range, Parnassia caroliniana will exhibit healthy foliage and robust flowering.

What Soil is Best for Carolina grass of parnassus?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7

Parnassia caroliniana thrives in soil rich in organic matter. This enhances nutrient availability and improves soil structure, promoting healthy root development and robust growth. Well-drained soil is crucial to prevent root rot. This ensures the roots receive adequate oxygen and prevents waterlogging, making it ideal for the plant's vitality. Maintaining moderate soil moisture levels is essential. Too much dryness can stress the plants, while consistent moisture supports their natural wetland habitat, catalyzing better flowering.

How to Fertilize Carolina grass of parnassus?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Parnassia caroliniana, it is important to apply fertilizers in moderation. When using liquid fertilizers, mix at half the recommended strength, ensuring uniform distribution around the base of the plant, avoiding direct contact with the leaves to prevent burns.

How to Prune Carolina grass of parnassus?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by assessing the plant's structure, identifying any dead or diseased stems. Begin cutting back these undesirable parts with clean, sharp tools. Trim down to a healthy bud or node to encourage branching. Maintain the natural shape of Parnassia caroliniana by making precise, angled cuts just above a dormant bud. This not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports healthier future growth. After pruning, apply a gentle, balanced fertilizer to support recovery and encourage robust growth. Water the plant adequately, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress, such as wilting or discoloration, and adjust care routines accordingly to assist plant rejuvenation. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Carolina grass of parnassus plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Collect seeds from mature Parnassia caroliniana plants in late summer or early autumn. Ensure the seeds are completely dry before storing them in a cool, dark place until ready for sowing in early spring.

Sow the collected seeds thinly on the surface of a prepared seed tray filled with damp potting mix. Lightly cover them with a thin layer of mix to ensure they receive the necessary light exposure.

Place the seed trays in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Maintain a consistent temperature and moisture level, ensuring the potting mix remains damp but not waterlogged during germination.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Carolina grass of parnassus plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two to three years

Watch for signs such as roots growing out of the drainage holes or a noticeable slowdown in growth. These signals indicate that your Parnassia caroliniana is ready for a roomier home. Spring and autumn present the ideal conditions, offering a mild climate that eases the plant's transition.

Select a pot that is just slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. This careful sizing prevents excessive soil moisture, reducing the risk of root rot while providing ample space for growth.

Opting for a specialized soil mixture rich in organic matter and with good drainage will serve Parnassia caroliniana well. Such soil mirrors the plant's natural habitat, promoting healthy root development and nutrient absorption.