Lowbush cranberry

Lowbush Cranberry is a common name for several plants in the Ericaceae family and is not a true cranberry. Some species of this plant, such as Vaccinium vitis-idaea and Vaccinium macrocarpon, are used in cooking much like the commercial cranberry, Vaccinium oxycoccos.

Description

The Lowbush Cranberry is a small, evergreen shrub that typically grows 10–20 cm (4–8 in) in height. The leaves are alternate, oval, 1–2 cm long, with a waxy, shiny appearance. The flowers are bell-shaped, white to pink, and appear in the late spring or early summer. The fruit is a bright red berry.

Distribution and Habitat

Lowbush Cranberries are native to the cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They are typically found in acidic, nutrient-poor soils in a variety of habitats, from boggy areas to dry, sandy soils.

Uses

The berries of the Lowbush Cranberry are edible and are often used in jams, jellies, sauces, and baked goods. They have a tart flavor and are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. The berries can be harvested in the fall after the first frost, which helps to sweeten the fruit.

Cultivation

Lowbush Cranberries can be grown from seed or by layering. They prefer well-drained, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade. The plants are relatively low maintenance and are resistant to most pests and diseases.

See Also

• Vaccinium vitis-idaea
• Vaccinium macrocarpon
• Vaccinium oxycoccos
• Ericaceae