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Partridgeberry

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description Partridgeberry Overview

Partridgeberry (*Mitchella repens*) is a low-growing, evergreen perennial native to the woodlands of eastern North America. It forms dense mats along the forest floor using creeping stems that root at the nodes. The plant is distinguished by its fragrant, paired white flowers that fuse at the base to produce a single red berry with two "eyes." These berries persist through the winter and serve as a food source for wildlife, particularly birds.

help Partridgeberry FAQ

Why is Mitchella repens called partridgeberry or twinberry?

Its fragrant white flowers grow in pairs, and the two flowers share an ovary that develops into one red berry. That paired structure explains the name twinberry and the plant's distinctive berry markings. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/mitchella-repens/common-name/partridgeberry/)

Where does partridgeberry grow naturally?

Mitchella repens is a creeping evergreen groundcover of eastern and central North America. It favors shaded forests, stream banks, rotten logs, and other moist woodland habitats. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/mitchella-repens/common-name/partridgeberry/)

Are partridgeberries edible?

The bright red berries are generally described as edible but bland or nearly tasteless. They are small, berry-like fruits produced after the paired flowers, and wild plants should still be identified carefully before consumption. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/mitchella-repens/common-name/partridgeberry/)

Does Mitchella repens prefer sun or shade?

Partridgeberry prefers deep shade or partial shade, moist soil, and soil rich in organic matter. It grows slowly and is commonly used as a woodland groundcover rather than a sunny border plant. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/mitchella-repens/common-name/partridgeberry/)

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