Purple Crowberry

Empetrum atropurpureum

Physical Characteristics

Empetrum atropurpureum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Labrador to Quebec, south to Michigan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[177]. The flavour is watery with a slightly medicinal flavour that is improved by freezing[183]. The fruit is usually mixed with sugar and acid fruits such as cranberries and then cooked[183]. They are a good currant substitute in puddings[183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known