Mitchella repens aka Partridgeberry

Taxonomy

Genus Mitchella Family Rubiaceae Order Gentianales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Mitchella repens, also known as partridge berry or squaw vine (no longer used), is a creeping, prostrate, evergreen herbaceous woody shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae (madder) family. It is found naturally in forests, stream-banks, on rotten logs, and in bottomlands and other wet habitats throughout eastern and central North America. The plant produces delicate, light green to brown twigs and opposite, ovate to cordate, green leaves with a pale yellow midrib that remain green throughout the winter. In summer, twin white tubular flowers with four petals covered in fine hairs mature. These flowers give way to scarlet, edible but tasteless berries that ripen from mid-July to October. Partridgeberry is often used as a ground cover as its stems run along the ground in a vine-like fashion and can carpet an area. The plant has a medium flammability rating.

Common names

Partridgeberry, Squawvine, Running Box

How to care for Partridgeberry

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Partridgeberry is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Partridgeberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Partridgeberry loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Partridgeberry is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Partridgeberry’s native range is N. America - Newfoundland to Florida, west to Texas and Minnesota.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Mitchella Genus

Mitchella repens Partridgeberry