Epigaea repens aka Mayflower

Epigaea repens is an evergreen shrub in the heath family. Gardeners know it as trailing arbutus or mayflower. It comes from central and eastern Canada and the United States. Its U.S. range includes north-central and eastern states. It grows in woods and clearings with sandy or peaty soil. Its low, woody stems creep across the ground and form mats.

Garden plants reach about 0.17–0.5 feet (0.05–0.15 metres) tall. They spread about 0.5–2 feet (0.15–0.61 metres) wide. Sources differ within these ranges, with UConn giving the larger sizes. Hairy, reddish-brown stems lie close to the soil. The bark stays mostly hidden and adds little garden interest. The leaves grow one at a time along each stem. They are simple, oval to oblong, thick, and leathery. Their rough surfaces carry hairs, and their edges may wave. Some leaves have rounded bases; others have heart-shaped bases. The green leaves stay through winter without a fall color change.

Small, sweet-scented flowers grow in clusters at the stem tips. Each flower has a tube and five spreading petals. Their colors range from white to pink. Bloom can run from February to May, depending on place. UConn reports April bloom. White, berry-like fruits follow and look somewhat like raspberries. Sources differ on fruit timing, from spring to early fall. Bees visit the flowers, and birds eat the seeds. The plant also hosts larvae of the hoary elfin butterfly.

Grow it in shade or filtered light beneath trees. It needs acid soil that drains well but retains some moisture. Sandy soil suits it, and loam or rocky soil can work. Some organic matter helps meet its woodland needs. NCSU lists USDA zones 2–8; UConn reports hardiness to zone 3. Growth is slow, though UConn describes a medium rate. Fine roots make it hard to establish or move. It needs a working bond with mycorrhizal fungi. Drought, flooding, and root disturbance can cause plants to fail.

It can serve as ground cover in shaded woodland gardens. Its flowers add scent, while its leaves cover bare ground. Use container-grown plants rather than digging plants from the wild. Some states protect it, so do not pick wild flowers. The flowers are edible and can be eaten raw. Indigenous peoples have used the plant for several ailments. PFAF urges caution with medicinal use because it contains arbutin.