Highbush cranberry (Viburnum edule)

Highbush cranberry

Also known as: Moosewood Viburnum, Pimina, Squashberry, Mooseberry

Native American tribes loved to feast on the delectable berries of highbush cranberry (Viburnum edule). Its common name was given to it because these berries have a cranberry-like flavor, and they grow on tall shrubs. You can make cranberry sauce out of them if you mix them with regular cranberries. This species is indigenous to North America.

Scientific classification

Species

Highbush cranberry (Viburnum edule)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

2.5 m

Plant Height

60 cm to 3.5 m

Spread

4 mm to 6 mm

Flower Size

White, Pink

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Highbush cranberry

Attributes of Highbush cranberry

Growth Rate

In the Spring, highbush cranberry exhibits rapid growth, forming flushes of leaves and expanding patrollelly. This swiftness results in an observable increase in its overall size and a lush canopy before mid-season. Off-season growth rates, though lower, further contribute to highbush cranberry's prolific vegetative spread. This rapid spring growth influences its characteristic dense form.

Distribution of Highbush cranberry

Distribution Map

Highbush cranberry is primarily found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with its native habitat extending across major areas of northern and northeastern Asia. Its growth has also been documented in similar climates elsewhere, suggesting a broader but non-native presence in other temperate zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist, wooded areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Highbush cranberry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Highbush cranberry prefers moist, humid conditions and is not drought-tolerant. Water every 1-2 weeks for optimal health. As a deciduous plant, highbush cranberry sheds its leaves annually, helping conserve water during drier seasons.

Fertilize: For optimal health and yield of highbush cranberry, use balanced fertilizers in spring and high-nitrogen in early summer. Fertilize twice a year to prevent root burn. Adjust based on soil tests and apply at the drip line for better nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Highbush cranberry is a deciduous shrub featuring white flowers and red berries. Prune in early spring by removing dead branches and thinning crowded areas for better air circulation. Rejuvenation pruning can enhance health and appearance, promoting vigorous new growth and improved berry production.

Propagation: Highbush cranberry is propagated using semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy plants. Cuttings must have multiple leaf nodes and are treated with rooting hormone. Maintaining a moist, well-drained soil medium, and providing humidity and partial shade is crucial until robust root systems develop for permanent planting.

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