How to Grow and Care for American Cranberry Bush

American Cranberry Bush, also known as Guelder Rose, Cranberry bush viburnum, Snowball tree, Cramp bark, Water elder

American Cranberry Bush is a hardy shrub that typically requires minimal maintenance, making it an easy plant to care for. The key care needs for american Cranberry Bush include ensuring well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade exposure. Special care points involve pruning to maintain shape and promote vigorous growth, and offering extra water during dry spells. No intricate care tasks make american Cranberry Bush suitable for beginners.

Watering schedule: Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Toxic to Humans

In This Article

Planting and Growing American Cranberry Bush

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 1-2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Partial sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	5.5-6.5
Planting Time	Spring, Fall
Hardiness Zones	4-8
Toxicity	Toxic to Humans

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Varieties of American Cranberry Bush

Guelder rose roseum

Guelder rose roseum is a guelder rose that differs from its parent because of its unique leaf coloration. The leaves grow green through the late spring when large opulent white flowers bloom, but then in fall they change color to attractive shades of orange, red, and rose, leading to the cultivar's name.

American Cranberry Bush 'Compactum'

The american Cranberry Bush 'Compactum' is a cultivar from the moschatel family. It is a shrub that reaches heights between 1.2 to 1.8 m. Its name was chosen for its compact appearance, which sets it apart from other varieties of Guelder-roses.

American Cranberry Bush 'Notcutt's Variety'

American Cranberry Bush 'Notcutt's Variety' is a hardy deciduous shrub renowned for its striking appearance. In spring, it's adorned with large, snowball-like clusters of white flowers, contrasting vividly against its dark green leaves. Come fall, the foliage transforms into a vivid red, accompanying bright red berries that persist into winter, providing visual interest and sustenance for wildlife in its native habitat settings.

American Cranberry Bush 'Xanthocarpum'

American Cranberry Bush 'Xanthocarpum' is renowned for its vivid yellow fruits, a rare deviation from the typical red berries of the species. This deciduous shrub flaunts a robust stature with arching branches, reaching heights conducive to small garden spaces. Lacecap-like white flowers bloom in spring, creating a striking contrast against the dark green, lobed leaves that transform into a vibrant red come fall. American Cranberry Bush 'Xanthocarpum' thrives in well-drained soils, showcasing its resilience and adaptability in various climates.

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The Toxicity of American Cranberry Bush

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More General Info About American Cranberry Bush

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Quickly Identify American Cranberry Bush

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American Cranberry Bush is recognized by its lush, lobed leaves and clusters of snowball-like flowers that transition from white to blush pink through blooming season. Come autumn, the leaves take on a vibrant red-orange hue. This shrub grows to about 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters) tall and wide. Distinctive red drupes appear after flowering, often mistaken for true cranberries in appearance but not related. These berries add ornamental value alongside the vivid foliage.