Vaccinium oxycoccos
European cranberry
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Vaccinium oxycoccos.
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist, Wet
Sand (light) Loam (medium)
Acidic
Partial shade, Full sun
Usage properties
Fruit, Tea
Dye, Ground cover
Description
Fruit - raw or cooked. For many, this is considered the tastiest flavor among the indigenous British wild fruits. The fruit is rich in pectin, which means it can be mixed with fruits that contain little pectin to aid in making jam. Pectin also plays an important role in the diet by helping to protect the body from radiation. Due to their sour taste, the fruits are often cooked to make jam. Although smaller than the related V. macrocarpon, the fruit of this species is considered superior in flavor. The fruit has a diameter of approximately 6 mm. Tea can be made from the leaves.