Highbush Cranberry (Viburnum edule)

Highbush cranberry is a deciduous multi-stemmed shrub with four-season interest. Clusters of white flowers appear from late spring to early summer, followed by orange to red cranberry-like fruits, which are edible. The leaves put on a lovely display of fall colour, and the fruits often stay on the branches throughout the winter, providing food for birds. This attractive shrub is great for riparian areas, irrigated gardens, hedgerows, edible landscapes, and backyard bird habitat.

Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full sun
Soil & Moisture: Moist, humus-rich soil
Mature Size: Up to 8' tall
Bloom Time: Late spring to mid summer
Edible: Yes (berries)
Wildlife Value: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Attracts beneficial insects. Moth host plant. Fruits eaten by birds and mammals. Provides cover. Browsed by elk, deer, beaver, and other wildlife.
Native Range & Habitat: Grows in moist forests, meadows, streambanks, and in swampy areas from low to mid elevations. Native throughout Canada, and northern United States.
Other Names: mooseberry, squashberry