Partridge Berry For Sale
Partridge Berry vine, also known as Mitchella repens, is seen as a must-have in gardens for several reasons. It is an effective low groundcover and 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.
Partridge Berry Plant Details
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, and provide 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 fuzzy pinkish-white tubular flowers that give way to this critical animal food source. Particularly in the winter when 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 beryy 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
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 a barren landscape. It is non-aggressive and can be planted among other perennials as well.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Partridge Berry 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 (Mitchella repens) online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with groundcover plants.
Customer Reviews
I've had it for about four years and it's still doing well.
I planted the roots and the sprouts are small, but living. It’s still warm here in zone 9a and they are in pots in the shade on the screened in patio. I will bring them inside if the winter is cold. Thank you for the BOGO deal. I’m retired and every deal helps.
Couldn’t be happier! It settled in quickly and looks beautiful. Exactly what I needed to brighten up a shady corner of my garden.
The little berries and green foliage add such character to my yard. Very easy to plant and already thriving.
These plants looked fresh and strong out of the box. They started spreading within weeks. TN Nursery really delivered excellent stock.
Does partridge berry spread?
Yes, partridge berry spreads slowly by sending out trailing stems that root as they grow. Over time, it forms a dense, green carpet that covers the ground beautifully. Its steady growth makes it perfect for shaded or woodland areas.
Is partridge berry a good ground cover?
Yes, partridge berry is an excellent ground cover plant. It forms a dense, low-growing mat of evergreen leaves that stays attractive year-round. Its small white blooms and red berries add color while requiring little maintenance.
What is partridge berry good for?
Partridge berry is great for natural ground cover, erosion control, and adding year-round beauty to shaded gardens. Its evergreen foliage, white blooms, and red berries create a charming woodland look. It’s also loved by birds and pollinators, making it both attractive and beneficial to wildlife.
Does partridge berry need special soil?
It grows best in moist, well-drained, and slightly acidic soil. Rich woodland soil or leaf mulch helps it thrive in shaded spots.
How can mitchella repens be used in landscaping?
It’s great for filling shady garden spaces, covering soil under trees, or planting between rocks. Its evergreen leaves and red berries keep the area looking fresh all year.
Exposure
Partridge Berry (Mitchella repens) thrives in low to moderate light conditions. It prefers shaded or partially shaded areas, making it ideal for woodland gardens or beneath tree canopies. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, so filtered light is best
Height at Maturity
Under 12"
Usage
Groundcover
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
USPS
Planting Zones
3-9
How To Grow
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.
