This plant, a native of the Southern Appalachian region, has leathery evergreen leaves that turn bronze in winter and are often used in Christmas decor. It makes an excellent ground cover and will grow in full shade. Under suitable conditions Galax spreads by its horizontal rhizomes and covers large areas with its impressive greenery.

     The three to four inch leaves grow six to eight inches tall. The flower stalk, reaching two feet tall, appears between May and July and contains many small white flowers. The root should be planted about three inches deep. Some plants may not grow or bloom until the second season.