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Fruit EdibleShrubs

Vaccinium erythrocarpum

southern mountain cranberry

An erect, branching, deciduous shrub with dark green foliage that turns a brilliant red in autumn, pink-red flowers appear in spring and are followed by spherical, edible, scarlet red fruits in summer

Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink Red Green
Summer Green Pink Red
Autumn Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
Genus

Vaccinium can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs or small trees, with simple leaves and small, bell- or urn-shaped flowers followed by juicy, sometimes edible berries

Name status

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Plant in a sheltered site in well-drained, moisture-retentive, acidic soil, (pH 4.5-5.5) in sun or part shade. For further details see blueberry cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by taking softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

More mature plants benefit from regular pruning. See blueberry pruning

Pests

May be susceptible to vine weevil larvae damage especially if container grown. Protect ripening fruit with netting from birds

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, root rot and chlorosis due to iron and manganese deficiency; see nutrient deficiencies

Get involved

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