Description

PILGRIM & BEN LEAR

Vaccinium macrocarpon

2 plants - 1 each Pilgrim and Ben Lear - 3.25" container of each

The cranberry, along with the blueberry and Concord grape, were known to the Pilgrims when they settled in New England. Hence the name Pilgrim for one of these distinctive natives.

The other, Ben Lear, or Vaccinium macracarpon, is a wild clone from Wisconsin. It is early-ripening and has large to medium bright red fruit. Very productive, it has a circular spread of 12 inches and expands by runners. It is especially prized for making sauces, the traditional side dish for the Thanksgiving turkey.

When ready for harvesting, these two cultivars turn deep red with a purplish blush. Deep skin pigments are an indicator of high antioxidant content and a range of other beneficial vitamins and minerals. They can be eaten fresh or dried, cooked up as a jam or sauce or strung up as a Christmas tree decoration. A dense evergreen, they hold pride of place in an edible garden. Most cranberries require a watery bog to grow in, but these two cultivars are exceptional in that they can thrive out of a watery environment. Zones 4-8

Care Info

Plant Type:An evergreen trailing ground cover, producing edible fruits. The cranberry is one of the U.S. native fruit plants.
pH Requirements:4.0 - 6.5
Soil Type:Sandy, sandy loam, boggy
Light Requirements:Full to filtered sun
Plant Rows Spacing:6 - 12 inches
Plant Aisle Spacing:6 - 12 inches
Mulching:Not necessary
USDA Zones:3 - 8
Scientific Name:Vaccinium macrocarpon

Grow Guide

PLANT USES: The biggest use of the plant Is for its fruits. Native Americans enjoyed the fruits and today all Americans have had fresh cranberries or cranberry juice. It is one of the most popular fruits today. The plants are adaptable to be grown as an upland or bog ground cover. The plants are vigorous and establish well in most soils, so the use as a ground cover has been successful. Because of its trailing effect it also makes a wonderful hanging basket and can be grown in a pot for patio or plantings.
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Keep the top inch of the soil moist but do not over water. The small leathery leaves will not transpire water quickly. Excess water will kill the plant if too much is applied during the growing season.
FERTILIZER REQUIREMENTS: Low rate acid type. When plants are immature it is best to use a water soluble fertilizer. After the first growing season light applications of granular fertilizers are recommended.

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