Vaccinium macrocarpon

Product Info

Large Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Heath Family

Large cranberry is classified as a low-growing, evergreen shrub, or creeping vine. It typically forms dense mats of small, leathery, dark green leaves that turn a vibrant red in the fall. In late spring, the plant produces delicate, pinkish-white, bell-shaped flowers, which give way to its most notable feature: bright red, tart berries. These berries, often harvested in autumn, are renowned for their use in juices, sauces, and traditional dishes. The cranberry thrives in acidic, sandy bogs and wetland areas in full to part sun. Growing in a pot is the most practical option for most gardens. Plants are very attractive trailing over the edge of a tall pot. Large Cranberry is a threatened species in NC.

Blooms: White, 3-4 weeks, May-July
Leaves: Evergreen leaves are small and glossy, taking on purple colors in cooler months
Height: 3-6' 
Space: 2-3'
Soil: Moist-Wet
Exposure: Full sun-Part sun-Part shade
Fauna: Butterflies, long-tongue bees, lepidopteran host plant 
Seeds: Small red fruits are edible to people and animals
Deer Resistance: High
Zone: 3-7
Native Status: NC native, rare in the Mountains and Coastal Plain
Provenance: Unknown, asexually produced