Epigaea repens

Common Names

Mayflower, Trailing Arbutus, Ground Laurel

Summary

Epigaea repens, commonly called trailing-arbutus or Mayflower, is an evergreen, prostrate creeping shrub forming dense forest-floor mats. Leathery, alternate evergreen leaves and tubular pink to white flowers with a strong fragrance appear in early spring in small clusters. Native to eastern North America, it grows in acidic, well-drained soils in pine or deciduous forests and clearings, often under pines, and spreads slowly as a ground-hugging plant. Growth is slow, and the species is very difficult to cultivate, often requiring mycorrhizal associations. For cultivation, it prefers partial shade to full shade and acidic, well-drained soils; keep moisture evenly moist but not waterlogged, with a mulch of pine needles or leaf litter to maintain soil acidity. Propagation is by seed or cuttings, and transplanting is challenging; it is sensitive to disturbance and overly wet conditions. In garden settings, it can serve as a woodland ground cover and is attractive to bees and other pollinators; it also serves as a larval host for the Hoary Elfin butterfly.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

2-6 inches

Spread

12-20 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade; tolerates shady spots to full sun

Soil Type

Acidic, well-drained, humus-rich soil, preferably loamy or sandy/peaty and lime-free

Soil Drainage

Well-drained, acidic soil kept evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Soil pH

No single ideal pH; tolerates 4.65-7.67

Bloom Color

Pink to White

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green (evergreen foliage)

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow-growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators