Trailing Arbutus
The mayflower (trailing arbutus) blooms in early to late spring. The fragile beauty of its flowers and their exquisite fragrance have made it a favorite of many generations. The flower grows wild from Newfoundland to Florida, west to Kentucky, and in the Northwest. It has become scarce due to over picking and transplanting from native habitats.
Arbutus requires intensely acid soil in a woodland setting. Soil pH must be 4.5 or below. Purchase plants from larger, well-established nurseries, some of which specialize in propagation of woodland flowers. The flowers thrive in wooded hillsides and rocky woods, particularly those near or beneath cone-bearing trees. The delicate pinkish blooms are often overlooked, as they tend to drape beneath plants. Elevated planters will bring the flowers to eye-level. During the first season, plants should be mulched with a light covering of pine needles. Never allow the soil around the root system to dry out. Bees are very fond of the mayflower.