Vancouveria hexandra, commonly known as American barrenwort, is an attractive, easy-care groundcover. Its leaves form a mat 6 to 8 inches tall. From April to June, it produces unique, white blooms that dangle from wiry, leafless stems well above the foliage. They resemble tiny umbrellas blown inside out; hence another common name, inside-out flower. There are as many as 10-30 flowers per stem. American barrenwort spreads slowly by rhizomes.

In the wild,Vancouveria hexandra is native to mixed deciduous and conifer coastal forests in Western Washington, Oregon and Northern California. It prefers moist soil, rich in organic material, and light to full shade. Although drought-tolerant once established, its foliage will look best with some water. This low-maintenance plant is resistant to slugs, snails, deer, and rabbits, and is virtually disease and pest free, making it a delightful garden plant. Our garden boasts several plantings of Vancouveria, both in the shady area near the south entrance to the garden and in the planting above the seasonal streambed near the garden benches.

Native American tribes in Northern California chewed its leaves to combat coughs.