Bishop's Cap

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Mitella Diphylla 5 Mitella Diphylla 4 Mitella Diphylla 1 Mitella Diphylla (2) Mitella Diphylla (1) Mitella Diphylla Mitella Diphylla 3

Bishop's Cap

Mitella diphylla

Bishop’s Cap is a delicate woodland perennial reaching heights of 6-18 inches. It thrives in rich, moist deciduous forests and shaded slopes, often forming small colonies. Its tiny, fringed white flowers bloom in late spring, resembling bishop’s miters. This plant is an excellent choice for shaded native gardens and woodland restoration projects, where it can provide ground cover among taller plants.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant
Type Forb
Sun Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Clay, Loam, Peat, Calcareous
Moisture Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 16
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 12
Bloom month(s) April, May, June
Bloom Color or Type White
Dominance Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.