Information on the American Cranberry Bush

The American cranberry bush is often used as part of landscape design because it is visually appealing, grows easily and is adaptable for filling in any shady areas. Its size and natural defense against pests also make it a wise choice for a landscaping shrub. They grow throughout the Northern United States, as well as much of Canada.

Features

The American cranberry bush grows to approximately 4 m high, with upright spreading branches that arch. The leaves on the American cranberry bush grow to be approximately 5 to 12 cm long, and resemble maple leaves. In the fall, the leaves change from green to a yellowish-red, then to reddish-purple. The flowers of the American cranberry bush are flat-top clusters of white flowers. The flowers around the outer part of the cluster are broad and sterile, while the flowers around the inside of the cluster are smaller with yellow anthers. The American cranberry bush produces bright red berries, about 8 to 10 mm in diameter. The fruit received its name because of its resemblance to the highbush cranberry and the cranberry of commerce.

Plant Family

According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, the American Cranberry Bush, whose scientific name is Vibuenum trilobum or Viburnum opulus var. americanum, is part of the honeysuckle family. The American cranberry bush is closely related to other shrubs in Europe and Asia.

Function

Because the American cranberry bush is hearty and resistant to many bugs, it is used mainly as an ornamental shrub. It also provides food for a number of small animals and birds. The berries on the American cranberry bush remain on the bush throughout the winter months and become sweeter as they freeze and thaw out again.

Upkeep

According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, the American cranberry bush grows best in partly shady, moist and well-drained soil. No special care is needed to get these shrubs to thrive and they are highly tolerant to most insects and diseases. These ornamental bushes are also easy to transplant, rarely succumbing to shock when moved.

Pests

The American cranberry bush is generally only attacked by one type of insect, the Viburnum leaf beetle. The Viburnum leaf beetle first entered North America in 1947, and it is believed the beetle was transported in plants from European nurseries. The beetles feed on the leaves of the American cranberry bush, and after a couple years of continuous feeding, the plant typically dies. The beetles only live approximately 8 to 10 weeks, but they reproduce rapidly.

References

• Ohio Department of Natural Resources
• Backyard Gardener
• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center