Mitchella repens
groundcover

Partridgeberry

Mitchella repens

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

2 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist but well-drained

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Mitchella repens, commonly known as Partridgeberry, is a low-growing evergreen ground cover with creeping stems, small glossy green leaves, and paired white, bell-shaped flowers that produce bright red berries in fall. This plant is valued for its ability to form dense mats in shaded woodland gardens and its edible berries, which attract wildlife and add ornamental interest.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides year-round greenery and attractive berries, enhancing shaded landscape aesthetics.
Practical UsesServes as a groundcover that suppresses weeds and prevents soil erosion.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local bird populations with its berries and dense foliage.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
  2. Keep soil consistently moist for best germination.
  3. Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
  4. Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Water regularly during dry spells, especially in summer.
  6. Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining, acidic soil and partial shade for thriving growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch to retain moisture and control weeds 🌱
  • Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape 🌱
  • Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed 🌱

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to full, direct sun ❌
  • Avoid heavy fertilizing which can promote disease ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderGroundcover beneath treesFragrant garden border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Heuchera Astilbe Brunnera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Partridgeberry questions

What zones can Partridgeberry grow in?

Partridgeberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Partridgeberry deer resistant?

Yes β€” Partridgeberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Partridgeberry bloom?

Partridgeberry typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Partridgeberry need full sun?

Partridgeberry does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Partridgeberry with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play