Partridge Berry

Squaw vine. Winter Clover. This rare and beautiful plant must have the shade of hardwood trees. Traditionally used by North Native American tribes to ease labor. Hence the common name “squaw vine”. Its uses were adopted by colonists and it was listed as an astringent tonic, diuretic, and when taken the last few weeks of a pregnancy it can contribute to a smooth labor. The berries were used as a cure for dysentery. A member of the madder family, it is a sweet groundcover with small heart shaped leaves, fragrant whitish pink flowers, and scarlet berries, which hang on all winter. Perennial. Hardy to zones 3-9.