About
Empetrum rubrum, the red crowberry, is a South American relative of the northern crowberry, forming a low, spreading mat of small, needle-like leaves and producing bright-red, edible berries in autumn. An ornamental ground-cover for a moist, acid, peaty soil.
About the genus
Empetrum, the crowberries, are dwarf, heath-like evergreen shrubs producing tiny, needle-like leaves on spreading stems and inconspicuous flowers followed by small, edible, glossy berries in red or black. Grown as ornamental ground-cover plants for acid, peaty or moorland soils.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, containers, mixed plantings.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
PruningRemove dead or damaged growth as needed.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.