Canada mayflower/Wild lily-of-the-valley
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Conservation Status: No current status rank in Maine
Photo Credit: U.S. Fish & Wildlife β Midwest Region/Creative Commons
Facts: The tightly coiled emerging leaves of the Canada mayflower are some of the first to be spotted in spring along the deciduous and coniferous forest floors of Maine. A fragrant perennial, the Canada mayflower has alternating leaves with a cluster of tiny white blossoms at the top of the plant, which are followed by green berries that turn red with white speckles in late June and August. It is a low-growing plant and is usually under 6 inches tall. Interestingly, Canada mayflower spreads by rhizomes and forms carpet-like colonies. Therefore, when you see a group of βplants,β they may actually all be connected to a single root system.
The berries of the Canada mayflower are an important food source for chipmunks, mice and birds, such as ruffed grouse, but can cause stomach upset in pets and humans when eaten. This native, non-invasive species can be seen along the Carson Trail.
Fun Fact: In folklore, the root of the Canada mayflower is reported to have been used as a good luck charm!
Sources: https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/.../maia.../canadense/, https://www.fs.fed.us/.../feis/plants/forb/maican/all.html, https://commonsensehome.com/canada-mayflower/