Fruits as Ornamentals

by Marvin Pritts

Cranberries can now be purchased from certain nurseries and planted right in your own backyard. It is a myth that cranberries need wet soils to thrive. In fact, just the opposite is true. For several years, I had a small cranberry planting in my backyard. It was probably the only one in central New York. Although it did not have striking ornamental qualities, visitors to my gardens were always fascinated with the plant, and most experienced gardeners couldn't figure out what it was.

Another plant related to the cranberry and blueberry is lingonberry. It is native to the Altantic provinces and northern Europe. It is a beautiful plant with dark green foliage and bright red berries. It makes an excellent low perennial border in acidic soils. The fruit makes a great sauce for meat.