Partridge Berry - Mitchella repens

Partridge Berry is seen as a must-have in gardens for several reasons. Not only is it an effective low groundcover, but it produces bright red berries amongst its evergreen foliage that persist throughout the winter. It is native to North America and has a long traditional history due to its medicinal properties. It can be found creeping along in woodland ecosystems, favoring shaded forests among trees. This groundcover is a triple threat of beauty: lovely foliage, adorable flowers, and gorgeous bold berries.

Plant Details - Partridge Berry

Family: Rubiaceae

Light Requirement: Partial Shade – Full Shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 1-2 in.

Spread: 6-12 in.

Growth Rate: Slow

Bloom Time: Late Spring – Early Summer

Flower Color: White and pink that turn into red berries

Wildlife Value: Produces food for birds and mammals, flowers attract pollinators, provides shelter for small creatures

While Partridge Berry is known for its eye-catching bright red berries that persist throughout winter, lovely flowers form first in the late summer. Each berry forms from a pair of two fuzzy pinkish-white tubal flowers that give way to this critical animal food source. Particularly in the winter where food sources are scarce, birds rely on the fruits of this native groundcover to persist in the harsh cold months. Truly playing a critical role in the natural ecosystem, the flowers also attract pollinators in the summer months. It prefers acidic, well-drained soils like most woodland plants. It has a natural resistance against diseases and pests.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Patridge Berry

Upon planting, be sure to water regularly. Once established, this groundcover is amazingly low maintenance. You can sit back and watch the beauty of its fruiting cycle and the balance it brings to the native ecosystem. Over time, this plant will form a charming carpet of green over barren landscape. It is non-aggressive and can be planted among other perennials as well.

Noteworthy Characteristics

This plant is botanically unique as its fruit forms from pairings of two flowers that merge rather than from a single bloom. All parts of this plant are dainty, with its glossy oval-shaped leaves complementing small flowers and berries. Shop for Partridge Berry online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with groundcover plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Fall

Bloom/Foliage Color

White

Height at Maturity

Under 12"

Care

Partridge Berry thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers acidic to neutral pH. Mulch to maintain dirt moisture and prevent weeds. Water regularly, but avoid waterlogging. It benefits from occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth.

Plant Reproduction

Partridge Berry spreads by producing above-ground runners called stolons.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

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