Vaccinium

Clusters of small, white, bell-shaped flowers are set off by the neat, oval leaves in late spring. Fruit begins ripening here in early July. The fruit of this species is generally considered the best of the low-bush blueberries. Often develops colorful (especially reds) fall foliage. Spreads, by means of its root system, to form a solid cover. Very long-lived, and exceptionally effective at resisting invasion by other plants. An outstanding native for use as a productive, attractive, low-maintenance ground cover. Quite tolerant of dry conditions, but needs a steady moisture supply at least while the fruit is developing and ripening. For fruit production, two or more should be planted.

The slender, wiry, trailing stems bear small, oval, dark-green, evergreen leaves. The flowers, which are small, intricate, and colorful, appear in late spring. Fruit is the cultivated cranberry. Plants are attractive, especially when laden with the colorful fruits in autumn. Requirements for successful commercial cultivation are exacting. As a home garden plant, however, cranberries will grow satisfactorily and produce fruit in moist, acidic, sandy or peaty soil. They will tolerate poor soil if it meets the other requirements. Cranberry plants will tolerate wet soil, but for best growth and fruiting they should have moist, well drained soil. (In commercial plantings, during the growing season, the soil is kept well drained most of the time.) Cranberry plants spread fairly quickly; under good conditions, plants set 11/2' apart each way will fill in within a year. A small planting can be quite productive, especially if the plants can be protected from late spring frosts while they are blossoming. Also serves as an unusual ground cover where conditions are suitable.