This evergreen plant called Trailing
arbutus is also known as mayflower, is actually one of the first flowers to
blossom in the spring. Trailing arbutus is a low, sprawling plant that really grows
as a ground cover, creating a carpet of leaves and flowers. Trailing arbutus plant
is found in eastern North America, from Newfoundland to Florida. Trailing
arbutus plant is a slow growing plant and cold hardy.
Furthermore, this plant grows in USDA
plant hardiness zones 2 through 8 in semi-shady conditions. Trailing arbutus plant
enjoys shade from direct afternoon sunlight. In the wild this plant is commonly
found in moist sandy soil, damp mossy banks and under pine trees. The Trailing
arbutus plant works well in a woodland garden.
The plant description
This plant is an evergreen shrub that
can reach about four to six inches tall spreading twelve inches wide. The oval
green leaves are about 1 to three inches long, protecting the ground with a
thick leathery cover. A very fragrant white to pink trumpet-shaped blossoms
appear in the early spring. The plant flowers turn into white raspberry-like
fruit that are about ½ inch wide and they mature in early fall.
How to plant Trailing arbutus
Trailing arbutus plant dislikes root
disturbances, which means it does not transplant well. One of the best growing
options is to sow the seeds directly in the ground. Make sure you prepare the
soil in late winter and then sow the seeds in the soil. Once the weather
conditions are right the seeds will germinate in 3 to 5 weeks. The ideal spacing
for Trailing arbutus plant is six to ten inches apart.
Trailing arbutus plant uses
This plant is visually pleasing when
surrounded by moss. Make sure you pick a location that is slightly damp,
because Trailing arbutus plant does not tolerate drought or excessive wetness. This
plant acts as a larval host and is also a source of nectar for the hoary elfin
and elf butterflies.
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