Mitchella Repens

Mitchella Repens are also known as Squaw Vines.

Mitchella repens, also known commonly as the partridge berry or squaw vine, are perennial vines native to eastern North America, South Eastern Canada, and Guatemala. Growing this plant in any of these areas has no negative impact on the local ecosystem or wildlife. They are also used as buffer plants around small ponds or bodies of water. The many roots they grow when forming colonies are useful for preventing runoff and soil erosion.

This plant is a non-climbing vine. They will not climb up walls, rocks, or other stone structures. They climb exclusively across the ground. When they grow, they often create a mat that covers the ground like a thick carpet. Although their coverage is dense, they do not spread far. Thus, this vine is excellent for coverage in small container gardens. Landscapers do not need to be worried about this plant invading or spreading to unwanted parts of a garden, although bordering an area with short stone barriers can be used as an additional safeguard to prevent potential spread. USDA Zones 4-9.

These vine plants usually grow 3 inches tall (7.5 centimeters) and 6 to 12 inches in width (15 to 30 centimeters.) They are very low maintenance and do best in low to full shade. They do best in rich and mildly moist areas. They appreciate light watering. When these plants thrive, they often form colonies. These colonies are what allow them to create the thick carpets they are known.

Mitchella repens are often used for winter ornamentation.

Their petite shiny green leaves and red berries are very appropriate for the holiday season. These plants are also edible. The leaves from this plant were once used by Native American women to brew tea. The berries can be eaten, although they are usually tasteless.

Mitchella repens have lush dark green leaves.

The Mitchella repens are shipped bare root.