American Cranberry, Highbush Cranberry, Cranberrybush, American Cranberrybush Viburnum

Viburnum trilobum

Physical Characteristics

Viburnum trilobum is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

N. America - Newfoundland to British Columbia, New Jersey, Michigan, Iowa, South Dakota and Oregon.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[3, 11, 161, 257]. Juicy but acid, the taste is best after a frost[62, 101, 102]. The fruits are rich in vitamin C, they are an excellent substitute for cranberries and are used in preserves, jams etc[183]. A jam made from the fruit has a very pleasant flavour that goes well in a porridge[K]. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter and contains a single large seed[200].

Medicinal Uses

Emetic Febrifuge Laxative Stomachic Vitamin C Women's complaints An infusion of the roots has been used in the treatment of prolapse of the uterus[257]. A decoction has been given to babies with fevers[257]. A decoction of the branches has been used to treat a fallen womb after birth[257]. The bark is laxative[257]. An infusion of the roots has been used to make a person vomit in the treatment of bad blood and fevers[257]. An infusion of the inner bark has been used to treat stomach cramps[257].

Known Hazards

Large quantities of the fruit can cause vomiting and diarrhoea[10, 65]. The fruit is of very low or zero toxicity, it only causes mild upsets when eaten unripe or in large quantities[65, 76].