Japanese mayflower
Epigaea asiatica
Family: Ericaceae
What it is like
An evergreen plant. It grows 15 cm high and spreads 50 cm wide. The stems are low and lie along the ground. They branch. The leaves are oval and have a wrinkled surface and an irregular edge. The leaves are alternate and have leaf stalks.
There are 3 Epigaea species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in the mountains in Japan. It is best in a fertile, well-drained, acid soil. It needs an open sunny position. It is resistant to frost but damaged by drought.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, Britain, China, Europe, Japan (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by cuttings.