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Trailing Arbutus
Trailing Arbutus botanical plate
Field guide plate · click to zoom

Trailing Arbutus

Epigaea repens
In the United States: Native · also called trailing arbutus, mayflower, ground laurel

Trailing arbutus provides early spring nectar and some pollen to honeybees and other pollinators when few other sources are available, supporting colony buildup after winter. Peak bloom typically hits in April across its range. It thrives in acidic, sandy soils under partial shade in woodland settings but is difficult to cultivate and may require protection from deer browsing.

Nectarmedium
Pollenlow
Bloom (US) March–May
Hardiness zones3-7
TypePerennial
Sunpartial

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