Small Cyrilla

Cyrilla parviflora

$17.50 Sold out

| Hardiness Zones 7-9

Cyrilla parviflora, sometimes known as Littleleaf Cyrilla, is a small but captivating tree that carries with it the charm and resilience of the wetlands of the southeastern United States. This lesser-known relative of the larger Cyrilla racemiflora has an elegant, understated beauty, with its delicate clusters of white flowers and slender, glossy green leaves.

A Journey Through Time

This species has quietly thrived in the margins of swamps, riverbanks, and moist woods for centuries, providing cover and nourishment for wildlife. Native to the Gulf Coast and southern Atlantic regions, Cyrilla parviflora is part of the rich tapestry of the area's ecological history. Its small flowers, though individually modest, bloom in abundance along its branches, creating a gentle, cascading effect reminiscent of early summer rains.

Botanical Brilliance

Botanically speaking, Cyrilla parviflora belongs to the Cyrillaceae family, known for thriving in damp, acidic soils. Its adaptability to wet conditions makes it a natural choice for rain gardens, pondsides, or low-lying areas where other plants might struggle. With its smooth, grayish bark and fine-textured foliage, this species adds a delicate touch to any garden setting.

Over time, the leaves of Cyrilla parviflora turn a warm shade of orange to deep red in the fall, bringing an unexpected burst of color to the landscape. Though slower-growing, its longevity and quiet grace make it a prized addition for gardeners looking to foster native plants with an ecological legacy.

The Perfect Companion for Your Garden

Whether you are looking to restore a wetland area or simply want to bring a piece of southern botany into your garden, Cyrilla parviflora is a beautiful, low-maintenance choice. Its subtle elegance, historical significance, and resilience in challenging soils make it a true southern gem.
Plant Specs
  • Zones: 7 - 9
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Moist and Acid
  • Height at Maturity: 4 - 8 Feet
  • Spread at Maturity: 4 - 8 Feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
Flower/Foliage

Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements:

Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages denser growth and more prolific flowering, though it can tolerate light shade.

Soil Preferences:

Prefers moist, acidic soils and is highly tolerant of wet or boggy conditions. Ideal for rain gardens, woodland edges, or naturalistic plantings in poorly drained soils.

Watering:

Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment. While it is naturally adapted to wet habitats, it can tolerate occasional dry spells once well established.

Growth Habit & Size:

Typically grows 4–8 feet tall and wide, forming a loosely rounded to irregularly upright shrub. Growth is slower than its cousin Cyrilla racemiflora, with a more compact stature.

Pruning:

Minimal pruning is needed. Light pruning in late winter to early spring can help shape the plant or remove any dead wood.

Fertilization:

Fertilize in early spring with an acid-loving, balanced fertilizer, especially if growing in sandy or nutrient-poor soils.

Seasonal Interest:

Produces airy racemes of white flowers in late spring to early summer, which attract bees and other pollinators. Foliage often turns a soft orange or red in fall, adding seasonal color.

Landscape Use:

Excellent for naturalized plantings, coastal gardens, boggy sites, and anywhere that benefits from native, pollinator-friendly shrubs. Well-suited for restoration projects and erosion control in wet areas.

Notes:

As a southeastern U.S. native, Cyrilla parviflora is well-adapted to hot, humid conditions and supports local biodiversity. It is more compact and often less vigorous than Cyrilla racemiflora, making it a unique choice for smaller landscapes or curated native gardens.

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Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.