Rockberry, Purple crowberry

Empetrum eamesii

Physical Characteristics

Empetrum eamesii is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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

North-eastern N. America - S.E. Labrador to Newfoundland and Nova Scotia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[177, 200]. The fruit is about 4mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known