American Cranberry Bush – Edible Red Berries – Hardy Shrub – 12-14" Bare Root

The American Cranberry Bush (Viburnum opulus var. americanum) is a hardy native shrub prized for its clusters of bright red, edible berries and its multi-season garden appeal. In late spring, flat-topped clusters of white flowers cover the plant, followed by red berries that persist into winter, providing food for birds and a tart, cranberry-like fruit for jams, jellies, and sauces. Its dense, upright habit and attractive lobed foliage make it an excellent choice for hedges, wildlife plantings, and naturalized areas.

This versatile shrub adapts to a range of soil conditions and is relatively low-maintenance once established. The berries are best harvested after a frost for a sweeter flavor, and the plant's tolerance of wet soils makes it suitable for rain gardens and stream banks.

Plant Features

• Produces clusters of bright red, edible berries in late summer to fall
• White spring flowers attract pollinators
• Dense, upright growth habit ideal for hedges and screens
• Provides food and cover for wildlife
• Hardy native shrub with multi-season interest

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Viburnum opulus var. americanum
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates wet conditions
• Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist
• Growth Habit: Upright, rounded
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-7
• Bloom Season: Late spring
• Mature Height: 8-12 feet
• Spacing: 6-10 feet apart

Planting & Care

Plant your bare root American Cranberry Bush in early spring or late fall while it is dormant. Soak the roots in water for a few hours before planting. Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots, place the crown at or slightly below soil level, and backfill with native soil. Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system.

Once established, the shrub is relatively low-maintenance. Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, and prune as needed in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Harvest berries in late summer or fall, ideally after a frost for the best flavor.

What's Included

One American Cranberry Bush bare root plant, 12-14 inches tall.