Twinflower
Linnaea borealis
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Pl. 2D02 — Linnaea borealis
Linnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealisLinnaea borealis
IOverview
Overview
Twinflower (Linnaea borealis) is a delicate subshrub native to the cooler regions of North America and Eurasia, including Alaska, Canada, and parts of Europe and Asia. Known for its light and airy appearance, this plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils ranging from sandy to clay, with a pH between 4 and 4.5. Twinflower is valued for its edible leaves, which can be used in various culinary applications. Its native range extends across numerous habitats, including forests and mountainous areas, making it a hardy plant that can survive in zones 2-6. One distinctive feature of this plant is its small, bell-shaped flowers, often described as twin because they grow in pairs along the stem, giving rise to its common name.
Quick answers
What is Twinflower?
Twinflower (Linnaea borealis) is a delicate subshrub native to the cooler regions of North America and Eurasia, including Alaska, Canada, and parts of Europe and Asia. Known for its light and airy appearance, this plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils ranging from sandy to clay, with a pH between 4 and 4.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Twinflower thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to medium soil types, with a slight tolerance for heavy clay soils. It is best grown in partial shade or dappled sunlight, requiring a pH range of 4–4.5. Hardy in temperate regions, it can survive in zones 2-6. Twinflower grows up to 0.2 meters tall and should be propagated through division or cuttings. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged for optimal growth.
Light
4/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
2-6
Habit
Forb/herb, Subshrub
Mature size
0.2 m tall
Soil pH
4–4.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Twinflower for the first time
8steps
Twinflower is a delicate plant that requires careful handling, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners looking to cultivate something unique.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers with drainage holes.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining mix suitable for acid-loving plants. Containers should be at least 6 inches deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant to outdoor containers once they are established.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and place in a partially shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and keep the soil slightly acidic with regular watering, especially during dry spells.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly to maintain shape after flowering in late spring or early summer.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using non-acidic soil, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough shade.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The twinflower's leaves are edible and can be consumed raw or used in teas. They add a light flavor to dishes and infusions.
Other uses:Ground coverFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe8 regions
native (8)AustriaBelarusDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyRussiaUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
native (1)China
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Aleutian Is., Altay, Amur, Arizona, Baltic States, British Columbia, Buryatiya, California, Chita, Colorado, Connecticut, Czechoslovakia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Irkutsk
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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