A low growing, creeping woody herb, large leaves are mostly all that is visible. Twigs basically not present, nearly prostrate stems are reddish brown, hairy and slightly shreddy; buds with loose green scales. Leaves alternate, evergreen, ovate to nearly oval, hairy margins, 2 to 3 inches long, heart-shaped base and somewhat thickened, shiny dark green above, a bit lighter and hairy beneath. Flowers perfect, white, pink to nearly red, 5 petals, up to 1/2 inch across, groups of 3 to 5, very fragrant, appearing in early to mid-spring. Fruit berry-like, round capsule, 1/2 inch across, pale yellow-orange, ripens in late summer.

A strong urinary antiseptic (flower); astringent, diuretic and tonic (leaves)

Plants For A Future

The flower is one of the most effective remedies for cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, bladder stones and particularly acute catarrhal cystitis. An infusion is made from the dried leaves, or a tincture from the fresh leaves. A tea made from the leaves is used in the treatment of kidney disorders, stomach aches, bladder disorders etc. It is of special value when the urine contains blood or pus.