Mooseberry, Squashberry

Viburnum edule

Physical Characteristics

Viburnum edule is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia. Eastern N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[11, 62, 101, 257]. The fully ripe fruits are mildly acid with a pleasant taste[183]. The ovoid fruit is about 8mm long and contains a single large seed[200]. The fruit can also be dried for winter use[183]. It is highly valued for jam[43]. It is best before a frost and with the skin removed[85, 172]. Another report says that the native Americans would often not harvest the fruit until it had been frosted[257]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Flowers - used in fritters[172].

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Astringent Dysentery Odontalgic Salve The bark is antispasmodic and astringent[172, 257]. An infusion of the crushed inner bark has been used in the treatment of dysentery and has also been used as a purgative[257]. The bark has been chewed and the juice swallowed in the treatment of whooping cough and 'cold on the lungs'[257]. A decoction of the stems has been used in the treatment of coughs[257]. An infusion of the leaves and stems has been used as a gargle in the treatment of sore throats[257]. The twig tips have been chewed and the juice swallowed in the treatment of sore throats[257]. A poultice of the chewed, unopened flower buds has been applied to lip sores[257]. A decoction of the roots has been used to treat sickness associated with teething[257].

Known Hazards

Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, it is closely related to V. opulus, the raw fruit of which can cause nausea in some people if it is eaten in large quantities, although the cooked fruit is perfectly alright[65, 76].