Small Cranberry

Vaccinium oxycoccos

Physical Characteristics

Vaccinium oxycoccos is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is 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 or wet soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to France, Roumania, N. Asia to Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Ground Cover; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 13, 17, 101, 171, 257]. Considered by some to be the most pleasantly-flavoured of British wild fruits[11]. The fruit is high in pectin[172], this means that it can be mixed with fruits that are low in pectin to help them set when making jam[K]. Pectin has also been shown to have a valuable role in the diet, where it is said to protect the body against radiation[201]. An acid taste, the fruits are usually cooked in preserves etc[183, 200]. Although smaller than the related V. macrocarpon, the fruit of this species is considered to be of superior taste[183]. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter[200]. A tea is made from the leaves[13, 257].

Medicinal Uses

Antiemetic Urinary An infusion of the plant has been used to treat cases of slight nausea[257]. Treatment for urinary infections - cystitis, and scurvy [301].

Known Hazards

Diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal disturbances with large amounts. Seek professional advice if suffering from kidney disease before using [301].