Vaccinium macrocarpon Pilgrim - Cranberry

Vaccinium macrocarpon 'Pilgrim', a variety of Cranberry, is productive and vigorous. The large red fruits are tinged with yellow. The Cranberry is a small ground-covering bush with slow development, reaching a height of 30cm (12in), and it thrives in acidic and moist soils. Enjoy the berries in jams, juices, jellies, or as an accompaniment to certain savoury dishes. Ideally plant in autumn or any time of the year, as long as it is frost-free, for a harvest starting in October.

The Cranberry belongs to the Ericaceae family and the Vaccinium genus, just like the blueberry. Naturally growing in North American bogs, it thrives in acidic and moist soils. It is very hardy, withstanding temperatures down to -25°C, and can live for several decades. However, Cranberry enthusiasts will need to be patient before enjoying a bountiful harvest, as its development is quite slow, taking at least 4 years before the first taste. Its oval and pointed leaves are evergreen. The stems have the peculiar characteristic of developing runners that easily root in the soil.

In summer, the Cranberry produces small pink flowers, followed by the formation of round berries measuring 2cm (1in) in diameter, which turn red when ripe and have a tangy taste. The Cranberry resembles the redcurrant, but they are two distinct species. The Cranberry harvest takes place in autumn. It is a fruit rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Cranberries can be dried or frozen for longer preservation.

In the garden, plant multiple Cranberry bushes to create a small edible hedge or incorporate Cranberries into acid soil flower beds, along with rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas or heathers.