Epigaea repens Mayflower (Ericaceae) Evergreen shrub

Browse Plants Articles

Power Search!

Browse Botanic Names

Sponsored By KhorWills

Epigaea repens
Mayflower
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Epigaea repens plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Newfoundland to Florida and west to Tennessee, Ohio and Michigan. It is a member of the Ericaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Mayflower.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Epigaea repens
Common Name:  Mayflower
Family:  Ericaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.1   Mature Width:  0.3

Habitat:  Sandy and peaty woods and clearings[43], usually under pine trees[4].

Medicinal Information: The leaves are astringent, diuretic and tonic[46, 61]. An infusion is made from the dried leaves, or a tincture from the fresh leaves[4]. A tea made from the leaves is used in the treatment of kidney disorders, stomach aches, bladder disorders etc[222]. It is of special value when the urine contains blood or pus[4]. Use with caution, the plant contains arbutin and, although this is an effective urinary disinfectant, it hydrolyzes to hydroquinone which is toxic[222]. The leaves are harvested in the summer and are dried for later use[238].

For further Epigaea repens gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future