Southern Mountain Cranberry

Vaccinium erythrocarpum

Physical Characteristics

Vaccinium erythrocarpum is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. 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.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - Virginia, N. Carolina, Tennessee.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked and used in jellies etc[183]. The transparent scarlet berries have an excellent flavour[183]. Somewhat sour according to one report[200] whilst another says that they can be insipid or sweetish[161].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known