Mitchella repens
We carry this. Available at our St. Augustine nursery; call (904) 471-0440 to confirm current stock.
Partridge Berry (Mitchella repens) is a native evergreen groundcover that forms a low, trailing mat of glossy, dark-veined leaves in shaded woodland settings. Paired white flowers in spring and summer give way to bright red berries enjoyed by wildlife. In NE Florida, it thrives in moist, shady spots with acidic, humus-rich soil — a delicate but rewarding native groundcover. Starting at $9.95.
Partridge Berry requires part to full shade, ideally dappled woodland light. In NE Florida's intense sun and heat, it must be sited beneath a canopy or on a north-facing slope — direct sun will scorch the foliage and stress the plant severely.
Keep soil consistently moist, mimicking a woodland floor environment. Partridge Berry does not tolerate drought; supplement with drip irrigation during NE Florida's dry seasons and mulch heavily to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Plant in humus-rich, moist, acidic (pH 5.0–6.0), well-drained soil amended generously with leaf mold or compost. This is a slow establisher — amend NE Florida's sandy soil thoroughly before planting. Fertilizer needs are minimal; a light application of acid-forming fertilizer in spring is sufficient.
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, high water, loam, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 3 of the same needs: similar light, high water, and loam.
Shares 3 of the same needs: similar light, high water, and loam.
Shares 3 of the same needs: similar light, loam, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 3 of the same needs: high water, loam, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 3 of the same needs: high water, loam, and pollinator-friendly.
Partridge Berry is a plant for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 2-3 in × 6-12 in.
