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ShrubsFruit Edible

Empetrum nigrum

crowberry

A dwarf, evergreen shrub to about 15cm, with trailing stems bearing tiny (5mm), needle-like leaves. The inconspicuous, pinkish or purplish flowers appear in late spring or early summer, followed in autumn by edible, black berries about 5mm across, which can remain on the plant all winter if not eaten

Other common names
black crowberry
black-berried heath
see moreblackberry heath
crakeberry
crauberry
crawberry
crow pea
curlew berry
hog cranberry
monox
monox heather
pigeon berry
wire ling
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink Purple Green
Summer Pink Purple Green
Autumn Green Black
Winter Green Black
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Ericaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Trailing
Name status

Correct

Plant range
Temp. N. Hemisphere

How to grow

Cultivation

Naturally grows in cool areas with high rainfall. Requires an open position in full sun or semi shade, on acid soil that is not waterlogged, but has a good moisture supply

Propagation

Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or by layering

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Ground cover
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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