Mayflower
Epigaea repens
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Mayflower (Epigaea repens) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
2"–6" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, CT, DE, FL and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Mayflower is a low-growing evergreen groundcover that produces fragrant pink or white flowers in early spring. This slow-spreading plant forms dense mats and thrives in acidic, well-draining soil under partial shade.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mayflower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The early spring blooms provide nectar for bees and butterflies when few other flowers are available. The evergreen foliage offers year-round shelter for small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Mayflower need?
- Mayflower grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Mayflower bloom?
- Mayflower blooms in April and May.
- Where is Mayflower native?
- Mayflower (Epigaea repens) is native to AL, CT, DE, FL and 24 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Mayflower attract?
- Mayflower draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Mayflower HOA-friendly?
- Mayflower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Mayflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz