Vaccinium Erythrocarpum

Description

Vaccinium Erythrocarpum, commonly known as Southern Mountain Cranberry, is a deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States. This plant can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide, with a multi-stemmed and spreading growth habit. Its leaves are simple, ovate, and dark green, turning red in the fall. In the summer, Vaccinium Erythrocarpum produces small white or pink flowers that give way to bright red berries in the fall.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Ericales
Family	Ericaceae
Genus	Vaccinium

Appearance

Vaccinium Erythrocarpum is a beautiful shrub with a spreading growth habit. Its dark green leaves turn red in the fall, adding a splash of color to any garden. In the summer, this plant produces small white or pink flowers that attract pollinators. In the fall, Vaccinium Erythrocarpum produces bright red berries that are edible but tart.

Care Guide

To keep your Vaccinium Erythrocarpum healthy and thriving, follow these care guidelines:Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, more often during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release, acid-loving fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.Soil: Vaccinium Erythrocarpum prefers acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. If your soil is alkaline, amend it with sulfur or peat moss.Sunlight: Plant Vaccinium Erythrocarpum in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Avoid planting in areas that receive hot, direct afternoon sun.Hardiness Zones: Vaccinium Erythrocarpum is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Vaccinium Erythrocarpum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:Blueberry maggot: These insects lay eggs in the fruit, causing it to rot. Use sticky traps to monitor and control infestations.Cranberry fruitworm: These pests feed on the fruit, causing it to become deformed. Handpick affected fruit and destroy it.Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and stems. Prune affected branches and dispose of them to prevent the spread of the disease.

Habitat

Vaccinium Erythrocarpum is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found growing in moist woods, bogs, and swamps. This plant prefers acidic soil and can tolerate some shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Are Vaccinium Erythrocarpum berries edible?
A: Yes, the berries are edible but tart.Q: Can Vaccinium Erythrocarpum grow in alkaline soil?
A: No, this plant prefers acidic soil and will not thrive in alkaline soil.Q: What pests and diseases are common to Vaccinium Erythrocarpum?
A: Blueberry maggot, cranberry fruitworm, and anthracnose can affect this plant.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Vaccinium Erythrocarpum?
A: Vaccinium Erythrocarpum is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Related Plants

Other plants in the Vaccinium genus include:

• Vaccinium angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry)
• Vaccinium corymbosum (Highbush Blueberry)
• Vaccinium macrocarpon (Cranberry)

References

• “Vaccinium erythrocarpum.” Plant Database, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin.
• “Vaccinium erythrocarpum Southern Mountain Cranberry.” Plants for a Future.
• “Vaccinium erythrocarpum.” USDA Plants Database.