Plant Preference/Growing Conditions:

Partridgeberry thrives in well-drained, acidic soils and prefers partial to full shade. It is commonly found in moist, wooded areas, often in association with other understory plants. The plant is tolerant of a range of soil types but prefers those that retain some moisture.

Growth Habit/Description:

Partridgeberry is a low-growing, evergreen perennial that typically reaches heights of 6 to 12 inches. It features trailing stems that can spread across the ground, forming a dense mat. The leaves are small, oval, and dark green, often with a glossy appearance. The plant produces small, white, tubular flowers that bloom in pairs, followed by bright red berries that are visually appealing and attract wildlife.  

Bloom Season:

The blooming period for Partridgeberry typically occurs in late spring to early summer, around May to June. The flowers are often hidden among the foliage, making them less conspicuous but still charming.

Fall and/or Winter Interest?

Yes.  Partridgeberry offers year-round interest due to its evergreen foliage. In the fall, the bright red berries persist into winter, providing color and attracting birds and other wildlife. The plant's low-growing habit also adds texture to the winter landscape.

Host Plant for Caterpillars?

Yes, Partridgeberry serves as a host plant for the butterfly species Chlosyne harrisii, or Harris's checkerspot.

Other Known Ecological Value?

Yes.   Beyond its role as a host plant, Partridgeberry attracts various pollinators, such as bees, enhancing local biodiversity. Its dense mat-forming habit helps prevent soil erosion and provides ground cover in shaded areas.

Origin of Name:  The genus name "Mitchella" honors the botanist John Mitchell, while the common name "Partridgeberry" is derived from the plant's association with partridges, which are known to eat the berries.

Related Plant Species: Mitchella repens is the only plant in its genus found in North America.  It has a nearly identical sister species found in Japan and Kora known as Mitchella undulata.

Use For Food/Medicine:

The berries of Partridgeberry are edible and can be consumed raw or used in jams and jellies. Traditionally, the plant has been used in herbal medicine for various ailments, although it is not widely recognized in modern herbalism.

Misouri Botanical Garden.  Mitchella repens.  https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b345

USDA forest service https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/mitchella_repens.shtml

Know your natives – Patridgeberry. Arkansas Native Plant Society. (2023, March 26). https://anps.org/2017/01/12/know-your-natives-patridgeberry/ 

Last edited by Maxine Uriarte, September 2024.