Cranberry - Vaccinium macrocarpon

The Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) produces red and round berries, 2cm (1in) in diameter, with a tart taste. The Cranberry or Cranberry Bush is a small evergreen ground cover bush, 30cm (12in) in height, that thrives in acidic and moist soil. Enjoy the berries in juice, jams, jellies, or as an accompaniment to certain savory dishes. Ideally plant in autumn or year-round in frost-free conditions, for harvesting starting in October.

The Cranberry belongs to the Ericaceae family and the Vaccinium genus, like the blueberry. Naturally growing in North American bogs, it thrives in acidic and moist soil. The Cranberry is a small evergreen ground cover bush, 30cm (12in) in height and 60cm (24in) in width, with a rather slow growth. It is very hardy, withstanding temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F), and can live for several decades. Its oval and pointed leaves are persistent. The stems have the particularity of developing stolons that easily root in the soil.

In summer, the Cranberry produces small pink flowers, followed by the formation of round berries, 2cm (1in) in diameter, turning red when ripe, with a tart taste. The Cranberry resembles the red bilberry, but they are two distinct species. Cranberries are harvested in autumn. Be patient: the first harvest takes place from the 4^th year. It is a fruit rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Cranberries can be consumed in juice, jams, jellies, or sometimes in certain savoury dishes. They can be dried or frozen for longer storage.

In the garden, plant several Cranberry bushes to create a small edible hedge, or incorporate Cranberries into acid soil beds, with rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas, heathers...