Cranberry-Myrtle

(Myrteola nummularia)

Cranberry-Myrtle (Myrteola nummularia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Myrteola nummularia, commonly known as Cranberry-Myrtle, is an evergreen shrub native to the temperate rainforests, peat bogs, and scrublands of South America. This low-growing plant typically reaches a height of 0.3-2 feet (0.09-0.6 meters) and spreads 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) wide, forming dense mats that can serve as an effective ground cover. The small, rounded leaves are glossy and aromatic, contributing to its ornamental value. During the summer, Cranberry-Myrtle produces an abundance of small, white, bell-shaped flowers that are subtly showy and attract pollinators. Following flowering, it bears edible, cranberry-like red berries that are both a visual treat and a source of food for wildlife.

Cranberry-Myrtle is valued for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, making it suitable for rock gardens, alpine gardens, and as a ground cover in temperate landscapes. It is also used for its edible berries in culinary applications, such as in the preparation of jams or liquors. For optimal growth, it prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate low to medium water conditions once established. It is adaptable to different soil types, provided they have medium drainage. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions. Gardeners should be mindful of its potential to spread, though it is not typically invasive outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 0.3-1.5 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to the temperate rainforests, peat bogs, and scrublands of South America

Other Names

Common Names: Teaberry, Huarapo, Ñaurapo, Daudapo

Scientific Names: , Myrteola nummularia, Myrtus nummularia, Myrteola oxycoccoides, Myrtus leucomyrtillus, Myrteola barneoudii, Myrteola nummularia var. barneoudii, Myrtus vaccinioides, Myrteola leucomyrtillus, Myrteola vaccinioides

GBIF Accepted Name: Myrteola nummularia (Poir.) O.Berg