Partridge Berry (Mitchella repens) is a small groundcover-like vine–though sometimes called a prostrate bush–with 6-12 inch trailing stems. As a woody evergreen, it keeps its leaves through the winter, making it perfect for shady gardens. The stems root at nodes, making a dense colony, also making it easier to cultivate rather than using seeds. It can grow in partial shade to full shade and prefers moist soils.
The fruit is fleshy and easy to eat, unfortunately it is without much flavor, faintly resembling wintergreen. Unfortunately, there is no information available about what caterpillars might feed on this plant, though the berries are useful for many ground creatures, including ground birds like grouse, quail, and turkeys.
Map Source:
USDA Plants Profile
Photo Credit:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=47694959