Native Habitat:
Moist forests, streambanks, and shaded slopes.
 
Bloom Time:
May – June
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Low-growing perennial herb, 4–12 inches tall, forming dense mats with broad, heart-shaped leaves. Produces clusters of tiny white flowers above the foliage, followed by small red berries.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Partial to full shade; thrives in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soils. Prefers consistently damp conditions.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Polystichum munitum, Tolmiea menziesii, Athyrium filix-femina, Adiantum pedatum, Camassia leichtlinii.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides groundcover, seasonal floral interest, and textural foliage in shaded urban gardens, woodland-inspired landscapes, and naturalized plantings. Works well as an understory plant beneath trees and shrubs, supporting habitat value and layered plantings.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract small native bees and flies. Berries provide food for birds and small mammals. Dense mats offer shelter for insects and ground-dwelling invertebrates.
 
Historical Use:
Used by Indigenous peoples for minor medicinal purposes and valued ornamentally in shaded, woodland-inspired gardens.