Empetrum Nigrum
Contents
Description
Empetrum Nigrum, commonly known as the black crowberry, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the heath family. It is native to the northern hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant has a low and creeping growth habit, with a height of only 10-30 cm, and a spread of up to 1 meter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Empetrum |
Appearance
The black crowberry has small, needle-like leaves that are dark green in color. The flowers are pink or white, and the fruit is a small black berry that is edible but somewhat bitter. The plant blooms from May to July, and the fruit ripens in August and September. The berries are an important food source for birds, including the black grouse and ptarmigan.
Care Guide
The following are some care tips for growing Empetrum Nigrum:
- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid over-watering.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers acidic, well-drained soil. Amend soil with peat moss or other organic matter if necessary.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The black crowberry is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering. The plant can also be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The black crowberry is found in a variety of habitats, including arctic and alpine tundra, boreal forests, and coastal heathlands. The plant is often found growing in acidic, well-drained soil, and is adapted to cold and windy conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Empetrum Nigrum poisonous?
A: No, the black crowberry is not poisonous, but the fruit is somewhat bitter and not commonly eaten by humans.
Q: Can Empetrum Nigrum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it requires acidic soil and regular watering.
Q: Does Empetrum Nigrum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant is an important food source for birds, including the black grouse and ptarmigan.
Q: How often should Empetrum Nigrum be fertilized?
A: The plant does not require much fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring.
Related Plants
- Empetrum hermaphroditum
- Empetrum eamesii
- Empetrum rubrum
References
- “Black Crowberry (Empetrum Nigrum).” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Empetrum Nigrum.” Gardening Know How.
- “Empetrum Nigrum.” Flora of North America.
