Crowberry, Black crowberry, Black Crowberry

Empetrum nigrum

Physical Characteristics

Empetrum nigrum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen in September. 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). and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral 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

Europe, including Britain, Iceland to the Pyrenees, east to Siberia and Bulgaria and also N. America

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw or cooked[1, 2, 3, 5, 65]. It can taste slightly acid or insipid[101]. Not very desirable[11], it tastes best after a frost[172]. A watery flavour, it is mainly used for making drinks, pies, preserves etc[183]. The Inuit dry or freeze them for winter use[183]. The fruit can hang on the plant all winter[172]. The fruit is about 7.5mm in diameter[200]. A tea can be made from the twigs[183].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Diuretic Kidney Ophthalmic The leafy branches have been used, especially for children with a fever, as a diuretic[257]. It has also been used to treat kidney problems[257]. A decoction or infusion of the stems, or the cooked berries, have been used in the treatment of diarrhoea[257]. A decoction of the leaves and stems, mixed with Hudson Bay tea and young spruce tree tips, has been used in the treatment of colds[257]. A decoction of the roots has been used as an eyewash to remove a growth[257].

Known Hazards

None known