Smith's Fairybells Prosartes smithii
ABOUT
Prosartes smithii, commonly known as Smith's fairybells, is a woodland perennial that presents a delicate appearance, often found in the understory of forests. The plant bears soft green, ovate to lance-shaped leaves that alternate along its slender, arching stems. Its foliage may display a slight sheen and typically has a smooth to finely toothed margin, providing a lush background for the plant's distinctive flowers. In the flowering season, Smith's fairybells produce pendulous, bell-shaped flowers that are typically creamy white or pale yellowish, often with fine, subtle spotting. These blossoms are known for their graceful droop and typically grow in clusters from the leaf axils. Each flower features six petal-like segments that curve back slightly, creating an elegant, flared effect. Following the flowering period, the plant produces berry-like fruits that usually begin green and ripen to a red or sometimes orange hue. These spherical fruits offer a visual contrast against the green leaves and are sought after by various birds and wildlife in the plant's native habitats. Smith's fairybells exhibit a rhizomatous growth habit, which means it spreads through underground stems, allowing it to form colonies when conditions are favorable. Due to its preference for shaded, forested areas, the plant contributes to the rich, diverse tapestry of the woodland floor. Overall, its gentle, nodding flowers and lush greenery make Smith's fairybells a picturesque addition to shade gardens and naturalized woodland settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Colchicaceae
Synonyms
Smith's Fairybells, Largeflower Fairybells, Large-flowered Fairybells
Common names
Disporum smithii, Prosartes lanuginosa, Streptopus lanuginosus, Disporum lanuginosum, Disporum trachycarpum.
ToxicityTo humans
Prosartes smithii, commonly known as the largeflower fairybells, is not widely recognized for its toxicity to humans. In general, this plant is not associated with severe poisonings or significant toxicity when ingested. However, as with all plants, individual sensitivity can vary, and it is generally advisable to avoid ingesting plants that are not known to be safe for consumption. If any portion of the plant is ingested and adverse symptoms become apparent, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
To pets
Prosartes smithii, commonly referred to as the largeflower fairybells, is not commonly known for being toxic to pets either. This plant is not typically listed as harmful to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. Nonetheless, pet owners should exercise caution and prevent pets from consuming plants that are not confirmed as safe to prevent potential gastrointestinal distress or other unforeseen reactions. If a pet does ingest part of this plant and any adverse symptoms are observed, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ecosystem Support: Serves as a food source for native pollinators and wildlife, contributing to the health of local ecosystems.
- Soil Stabilization: Helps to prevent soil erosion in forested areas where it naturally grows, thanks to its root system.
- Habitat Enhancement: Provides shelter and breeding grounds for various small animals and insects in its native habitat.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Enhances the natural beauty of woodland gardens and shaded landscapes with its delicate flowers and foliage.
- Biodiversity: Adds to the diversity of plant species in an area, which can increase the resilience of ecosystems.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Prosartes smithii, more commonly known as the largeflower fairybells, can be used in shaded garden areas to create a natural woodland aesthetic, due to its native growth in forested environments.
- The plant's fibrous roots can be incorporated into land reclamation projects to help stabilize the soil, particularly in areas that replicate its native shady and moist conditions.
- Largeflower fairybells can be a subject of nature photography, particularly when in bloom, due to their delicate, nodding, bell-shaped flowers that capture the essence of a pristine woodland.
- With its early spring flowering, the plant can be used to indicate seasonal changes in natural educational programs that focus on native woodland flora cycles.
- The seeds of Prosartes smithii can be studied for their germination process, which is unique in that they require stratification and the presence of certain soil fungi to grow.
- Gardeners may utilize the plant in shade gardens to complement ferns and other moisture-loving shade plants, creating a diverse understory in garden settings.
- Prosartes smithii's leaves add texture to floral arrangements, especially those that aim to have a natural, woodland feel.
- Learning institutions might use the plant as a tool to teach botany and ecology, focusing on the symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi required for its growth.
- The species can be grown in a shaded nursery setting and transplanted to naturalize in forest restoration projects, as it is beneficial for maintaining local biodiversity.
- Culinary experimentation could possibly explore the use of its berries, although they are not commonly consumed and their flavor profile and edibility would need to be fully assessed to ensure they are safe to eat.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Drooping Star of Bethlehem is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Drooping Star of Bethlehem is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Delicate beauty: The prosartes smithii, also known as the Smith's fairybells, can signify delicate beauty due to its small, bell-shaped flowers and graceful appearance.
- Resilience: Although fragile-looking, Smith's fairybells are capable of growing in deep forest shade, symbolizing resilience and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
- Grace under pressure: The plant's gentle nodding flowers in the shade can represent the ability to maintain grace and poise, even in less-than-ideal circumstances.
WaterThe large-flowered fairybells (Prosartes smithii) prefer consistently moist soil, so they should be watered deeply once a week, providing around 1-2 gallons per plant. During hotter, drier periods, check the soil moisture more frequently, as you may need to water twice a week. However, be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. The water should be poured directly onto the soil rather than over the leaves to prevent fungal diseases. Adjust the watering schedule during the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant and requires less moisture.
LightLarge-flowered fairybells thrive in partial to full shade conditions. The ideal spot for the plant is under the canopy of larger trees or in a shaded garden where it can receive filtered sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and stress the plant.
TemperatureLarge-flowered fairybells do best in cooler environments, with ideal temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be exposed to temperatures over 80 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid heat stress.
PruningPrune large-flowered fairybells to remove dead or damaged foliage and to maintain a desirable shape. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This light pruning helps to encourage healthier, more vigorous plants. It is not usually necessary to prune this plant extensively unless it has outgrown its space or is damaged.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Smith's Fairybell prefers well-draining, humus-rich soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. A mixture of loam, peat, and perlite or sand works best to provide adequate nutrients and drainage.
RepottingSmith's Fairybells should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current pot to avoid root crowding and ensure nutrient availability.
Humidity & MistingSmith's Fairybells thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 60% to 80%, which mimics their natural understory environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide shade, cool temps, and high humidity for Smith's Fairybells indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade, moist soil, and sheltered location outdoors.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the plant commonly known as Smith's fairybells, Prosartes smithii, begins with seed germination, typically in moist, shaded soil under forest canopies. Once germinated, the plant develops a root system and a shoot that grows into a stem with leaves. Over the years, the perennial Smith's fairybells gradually matures and produces a flowering stalk. The flowers are bell-shaped, white to yellowish, appearing between April and June, depending on the location. Following pollination, typically by insects, the flowers develop into berry-like fruits that turn red when ripe and contain seeds for the next generation. The plant then enters a period of dormancy in winter, with the above-ground portion dying back, and resumes growth in the following spring from the underground rhizomes.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The large-flowered fairybells (Prosartes smithii) can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method, typically carried out in the fall after the plant has flowered and begun to go dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of the plant, making sure to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. The clump can then be gently pulled apart into smaller sections, ensuring each piece has a portion of the roots. These sections can be immediately replanted in a prepared area of the garden that matches the light and soil preferences of the large-flowered fairybells, ideally a spot with moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This straightforward method allows gardeners to quickly expand their collection of these charming woodland plants.
