Circaea alpina is a native, herbaceous perennial in the evening primrose family (Onagraceae), widespread across much of North America and found occasionally in Pennsylvania’s cooler, shaded forests and Appalachian uplands. Typically growing 4–12 inches tall, it bears a terminal raceme with a more crowded cluster at the top — of tiny white flowers, each with two bilobed petals, two sepals, and two stamens — a distinctive floral structure. Blooming primarily from May through October, each flower gives rise to a burr-covered fruit that clings to fur, feathers, or clothing, dispersing its single seed to new woodland niches.

The heart-shaped leaves are dark green, coarsely toothed, and hairless, arranged in opposite pairs that emerge at right angles to one another. The petioles are subtly winged beneath, creating a whorl-like backdrop that frames the delicate white flowers with quiet elegance.

Circaea alpina prefers cool, moist to wet, shaded environments — including swamps, streambanks, moss-covered logs, and the misty edges of waterfalls.

The plant attracts small pollinators such as Halictid bees, little carpenter bees, Syrphid flies, and bee flies, primarily for its pollen. Deer and rabbits may browse the foliage occasionally, though it is not a significant food source due to its small size and low nutritional value.

Small enchanter’s nightshade is a quiet but important member of Pennsylvania’s native flora, contributing to the ecological fabric of shaded forest understories. Named for the Greek enchantress Circe — famed for her magical powers and knowledge of potent herbs — the plant itself is non-toxic, offering no danger despite its evocative name.