Cranberry
Vaccinium macrocarpon
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Description
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is a low-growing, evergreen shrub native to North America, thriving in acidic, boggy soils. It plays a crucial role in wetland restoration projects within agroecology, enhancing biodiversity and water management. As a groundcover in food forests, cranberries contribute to soil stabilization and provide habitat for beneficial insects. Historically, Native American tribes utilized cranberries for food, medicine, and dye. In regenerative agriculture, cranberries can be integrated with other acid-loving plants like blueberries and lingonberries, forming a productive guild that supports ecosystem health.
Growing Details
Cranberries require acidic, well-drained, sandy or peat-rich soils. Prepare soil by incorporating organic matter to enhance moisture retention. Mulch with sand or pine needles to maintain soil acidity and moisture levels. Companion plants include blueberries and lingonberries. Avoid overwatering, as cranberries prefer consistent moisture without waterlogging. Harvest berries in the fall when they are firm and bright red. Store fresh cranberries in a cool, dry place for up to two months or freeze
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Winter Edible
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Vaccinium macrocarpon</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to northeastern North America
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: Cranberries are primarily consumed as fresh, dried, or juiced. They are popular in sauces, desserts, and baked goods, known for their tart flavor. The berries are often sweetened before consumption. Nutritionally, they are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Cranberries are renowned for preventing urinary tract infections due to their high levels of proanthocyanidins. They possess antioxidant properties that may support cardiovascular health. The berries can be consumed as juice or supplements for medicinal purposes.
health concerns: Excessive consumption may lead to stomach upset or increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals due to high oxalate content. Moderation is advised.
other uses: Cranberries can be used as a natural dye, providing a range of red hues.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Vaccinium macrocarpon
common names: Cranberry; American Cranberry; Large Cranberr
family: Ericaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Vaccinium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(3/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 20 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Slow
max height: 0.2 m
max width: 2.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Cranberries require acidic, well-drained, sandy or peat-rich soils. Prepare soil by incorporating organic matter to enhance moisture retention. Mulch with sand or pine needles to maintain soil acidity and moisture levels. Companion plants include blueberries and lingonberries. Avoid overwatering, as cranberries prefer consistent moisture without waterlogging. Harvest berries in the fall when they are firm and bright red. Store fresh cranberries in a cool, dry place for up to two months or freeze
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include cranberry fruitworm and cranberry weevil. Manage these with natural predators like parasitic wasps and beneficial nematodes. Use companion plants such as marigolds to repel pests and apply neem oil for fungal diseases.
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