Empetrum nigrum aka Crowberry

Taxonomy

Genus Empetrum Family Ericaceae Order Ericales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Empetrum nigrum, also known as crowberry, black crowberry, or blackberry in western Alaska, is a flowering plant species in the heather family Ericaceae. It has a near circumboreal distribution in the Northern Hemisphere and is native to the Falkland Islands as well. This dwarf, evergreen shrub grows up to about 15cm in height and has trailing stems with tiny needle-like leaves. In late spring or early summer, inconspicuous pinkish or purplish flowers appear, which are followed by small, edible black berries in autumn. These berries, measuring about 5mm across, can remain on the plant throughout winter if not consumed. In subarctic regions, Empetrum nigrum has been an important part of the diet for indigenous communities like the Inuit and the Sami. The Dena'ina (Tanaina) people harvest it for food and often store it in large quantities for winter, sometimes mixing it with lard or oil. While the fruits are typically collected in the fall, they can persist on the plant and be gathered in the spring if left unpicked.

Common names

Crowberry, Curlew Berry, Crakeberry

How to care for Crowberry

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Crowberry due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Crowberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Crowberry thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Crakeberry.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Region of origin

Crowberry’s native range is Europe, including Britain, Iceland to the Pyrenees, east to Siberia and Bulgaria and also N. America.

More info:
Wikipedia

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More Species in Empetrum Genus

Empetrum rubrum

Empetrum nigrum Crowberry