Shinleaf – 7/9/20

Observer: Rita Corey and Larry Myatt

Observation Date: 7/9/20

Observation Time: 9:18 a.m.

Observation Location: Mountain Street, near entrance to Rattlesnake Hill

Common Name: Shinleaf (a.k.a. White Wintergreen)

Scientific Name: Pyrola elliptica

Comments: Its common name, shinleaf, comes from the medicinal use of the plant, which produces a drug similar to aspirin.  This drug has been reported to have analgesic properties and was used on bruised shins and other wounds. A plaster made from the leaves was called a shin plaster.  

More Information: NC State Extension