Purple Crowberry (Empetrum atropurpureum)

Family: Empetraceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Empetrum atropurpureum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). . The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour is watery with a slightly medicinal flavour that is improved by freezing. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; The flavour is watery with a slightly medicinal flavour that is improved by freezing.; The fruit is usually mixed with sugar and acid fruits such as cranberries and then cooked.; They are a good currant substitute in puddings.

Habitat & North American Range

Granitic or acidic gravel and sands on mountains. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)