Native Habitat:
Moist forests, forest edges, and open woodlands.
 
Bloom Time:
April – May
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Evergreen groundcover shrub, 6–18 inches tall, with low-spreading stems and holly-like, glossy leaves. Produces clusters of yellow flowers in spring, followed by dark blue berries.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Partial shade to full shade; thrives in moist, well-drained soils. Prefers humus-rich forest soils and tolerates seasonal wetness.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Polystichum munitum, Tolmiea menziesii, Camassia leichtlinii, Achlys triphylla, Adiantum pedatum.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides year-round evergreen foliage, early-season flowers, and wildlife-friendly berries in shaded urban gardens, woodland-inspired landscapes, and naturalized plantings. Works well as a groundcover, in layered shrub borders, or under trees for habitat enhancement.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees and other pollinators. Berries provide food for birds and small mammals. Dense foliage and low-spreading stems offer shelter and nesting sites for insects and small wildlife.
 
Historical Use:
Berries and roots were used by Indigenous peoples for food, dye, and medicinal purposes; valued ornamentally for evergreen groundcover, wildlife support, and woodland aesthetic.