Highbush Cranberry
USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Herman, D.E., et al. 1996. North Dakota tree handbook. USDA NRCS ND State Soil Conservation Committee; NDSU Extension and Western Area Power Administration, Bismarck.
USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Herman, D.E., et al. 1996. North Dakota tree handbook. USDA NRCS ND State Soil Conservation Committee; NDSU Extension and Western Area Power Administration, Bismarck.
Names: Highbush Cranberry (English); Pembina (French); Kalyna (Ukranian); Viburnum trilobum (Latin)
Other Common Names: American Cranberrybush, Guelder Rose, Dog Rowan, European Cranberry Tree, Marsh Alder, Rose Elder, Red Elder, Water Elder, Dog Elder, Gatten Tree, Whitten Tree, Ople Tree, Snowball Tree, Crampbark, Mooseberry
Habitat and Origin: Native to the Pacific Northwest and is usually found in moist forests or rocky slopes at low to middle elevations.
Characteristics: Large, deciduous shrub with arching stems and a dense rounded form. Has glossy dark green, 3-lobed leafs and forms clusters of flat-top white flowers.
Edible Portion: Produces bright red juicy acidic fruits that are ripe from August to September that are very similar to the cranberry (but from a different family).
Optimal Growing Conditions: Well drained, moist, rich soils but can survive in all soil types. Sun or semi-shade. Established plants are tolerant of frost and drought with supplemented watering.
Aboriginal Peoples Uses: Tart berries were used as food or stored in boxes/baskets until soft and brown. The bark has been used medicinally for lung colds, stomach trouble or relief of menstrual cramps, infected cuts and eye medicine. Leaves have been used medicinally for sore throats.