Epigaea repens

Epigaea repens is a small, perennial flowering plant in the family Ericaceae. Commonly known as trailing arbutus or mayflower, it is native to the eastern North America and has been designated the state flower of Massachusetts and Nova Scotia.

Description

Epigaea repens is a low-growing, spreading shrub usually only 10–20 cm (4–8 in) high. Its leaves are evergreen, leathery, dark green, and ovate to oblong-elliptic. The flowers are pink or white, sweet-scented, bell-shaped, 6–12 mm (0.2–0.5 in) long, and produced in clusters of 2-6.

Distribution and habitat

The plant is found from Newfoundland to Florida, west to Kentucky and the Northwest Territories. It prefers sandy or rocky, well-drained soils and is found in open or dry woods, on rocky slopes, and in sandy fields.

Cultivation and uses

Epigaea repens is cultivated for its ornamental flowers, which are among the first to appear in spring. It is difficult to propagate and is rarely found in nurseries. The plant has been used in traditional medicine, particularly by Native Americans, who used it as a treatment for kidney disorders and rheumatism.

Conservation

The plant is considered endangered or threatened in several states due to habitat loss and over-collection. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting existing populations and educating the public about the plant's ecological importance and the dangers of over-collection.