Small cranberry

Small Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos) is a species of cranberry found in the northern hemisphere. It is a member of the Ericaceae family, which includes other well-known plants such as rhododendron, azalea, and blueberry.

Description

The small cranberry is a perennial, evergreen shrub that typically grows to a height of 2–8 cm. Its leaves are small, oval, and alternate, with a dark green upper surface and a paler underside. The flowers are pink, with a unique, reflexed shape, and they bloom in the late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small, red berry that ripens in the late summer to early fall.

Distribution and Habitat

The small cranberry is native to the cool temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It is typically found in acidic, nutrient-poor bogs, fens, and swamps.

Uses

The berries of the small cranberry are edible and have a tart flavor. They are often used in the production of cranberry juice, cranberry sauce, and other cranberry-based products. In addition to their culinary uses, small cranberries have also been used in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits.

Cultivation

Cultivation of the small cranberry requires a cool climate and acidic soil. The plants are typically propagated from cuttings or by layering. They require full sun to partial shade and prefer a moist to wet soil.

Conservation

The small cranberry is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, its habitat is threatened by drainage for agriculture and peat extraction, as well as by climate change.

See Also

• Cranberry
• Vaccinium
• Ericaceae

References

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