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Description
Vaccinium Microcarpum, also known as the small cranberry, is a type of berry-bearing plant native to North America. It belongs to the Ericaceae family, which also includes blueberries and rhododendrons. The plant typically grows to a height of 5-20 cm and spreads through runners. It has small, evergreen leaves that are glossy and dark green in color. The flowers are pink or red and bloom in May and June, while the fruit is typically ripe by late summer or early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Vaccinium |
Appearance
The small cranberry plant has small, evergreen leaves that are glossy and dark green in color. The leaves are typically 5-10 mm long and 3-5 mm wide. The flowers are pink or red in color and bloom in May and June. The fruit is a small, red berry that is typically ripe by late summer or early fall. The berries are typically 5-8 mm in diameter and have a tart, acidic flavor.
Care Guide
Water: Vaccinium Microcarpum prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Vaccinium Microcarpum is hardy to USDA zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect Vaccinium Microcarpum include mites, aphids, and fruitworms. Diseases that can affect the plant include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Habitat
Vaccinium Microcarpum is native to North America and is typically found in wetlands, bogs, and other areas with acidic soil. The plant is also commonly grown as a garden plant and can be found in gardens and landscapes throughout the United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Vaccinium Microcarpum plant?
A: You should keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.Q: What is the ideal pH for Vaccinium Microcarpum soil?
A: The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.Q: What are some common pests that can affect Vaccinium Microcarpum?
A: Common pests include mites, aphids, and fruitworms.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Vaccinium Microcarpum?
A: The plant is hardy to USDA zones 2-7.
Related Plants
- Vaccinium angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry)
- Vaccinium corymbosum (Highbush Blueberry)
- Vaccinium macrocarpon (Cranberry)
- Vaccinium oxycoccos (Small Bog Cranberry)
References
- “Vaccinium Microcarpum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 14 Aug. 2021.
- “Small Cranberry.” The Morton Arboretum. Morton Arboretum, n.d. Web. 14 Aug. 2021.
- “Small Cranberry.” USDA Forest Service. United States Department of Agriculture, n.d. Web. 14 Aug. 2021.
