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Description
Phyllodoce Empetriformis, commonly known as Crowberry, is a low-growing evergreen shrub native to the subarctic regions of North America and Europe. It belongs to the heath family Ericaceae and is a close relative of blueberries and rhododendrons. The plant has narrow, needle-like leaves and produces small, pink to white flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by edible, black berries that ripen in late summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Phyllodoce |
Appearance
Phyllodoce Empetriformis grows up to 6 inches tall and 2 feet wide. Its narrow, needle-like leaves are about 1 inch long and dark green in color. The plant produces small, pink to white, bell-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are about ¼ inch wide and grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. The flowers are followed by small, edible, black berries that ripen in late summer to early fall. The berries are about ¼ inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Phyllodoce Empetriformis is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water: Crowberry prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater it.
Fertilization: Crowberry does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Soil: Crowberry prefers acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is not naturally acidic, you can add peat moss, pine needles, or other acidic materials to the soil.
Sunlight: Crowberry prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flowering and fruiting.
Hardiness Zones: Crowberry is hardy in USDA zones 2-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phyllodoce Empetriformis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by the following:
Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Regularly spraying the plant with water can help prevent spider mites from infesting the plant.
Crown rot: This disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. It is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet soil. Avoid overwatering the plant and make sure the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
Phyllodoce Empetriformis is native to subarctic regions of North America and Europe. It grows in rocky, well-drained soil in alpine and subalpine areas. It is commonly found in tundra, heath, and bog habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phyllodoce Empetriformis deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Phyllodoce Empetriformis is deer-resistant.
Q: Can I grow Phyllodoce Empetriformis in a container?
A: Yes, Phyllodoce Empetriformis can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune Phyllodoce Empetriformis?
A: Phyllodoce Empetriformis does not require much pruning. You can prune the plant to shape it or to remove any dead or diseased branches.
Q: Can I propagate Phyllodoce Empetriformis from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate Phyllodoce Empetriformis from cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Phyllodoce Empetriformis:
- Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.)
- Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.)
- Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
- Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus)
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/phyllodoce-empetriformis-crowberry
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/phyllodoce_empetriformis.shtml
- https://www.bbg.org/gardening/article/crowberry
