Canada Mayflower
Rhizomatous perennial reaching 8-20 cm tall. Features heart-shaped leaves and small spikes of white flowers followed by red berries. Prefers acidic, moist woodland soils and shade. Spreads aggressively by rhizomes to form extensive groundcover. Adaptable to various woodland conditions. Suitable for naturalizing in acidic shade gardens and woodland groundcover. Native to northern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: White
Bloom Time: Late Spring to Early Summer
Sun Requirements: Part-Shade to Shade
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Emerges from rhizomes April-May. Leaves reach full size by May. Small white flower spikes appear May-June. Red berries develop August-September. Yellow fall color develops October. Dies back completely in fall.
Wildlife Value: Berries eaten by small mammals and ground-feeding birds; provides ground cover for woodland wildlife; flowers support small native bees and flies
Habit Over Time: Creates expanding carpets through extensive rhizomatous growth. New shoots emerge throughout the colony creating dense groundcover. Can cover large woodland areas over time.
Height: Short (3-8 inches)