How to Grow European Cranberry Bush - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

European cranberry bush is a low-growing shrub that is native to Europe. It is a member of the Ericaceae family and is closely related to the American cranberry bush (Vaccinium macrocarpon). The european cranberry bush is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to 2-3 ft. (0.6-0.9 m) in height. It has small, dark green leaves and clusters of white flowers that blooming in early summer. The fruit is a small, red berry that is edible and has a tart flavor. The european cranberry bush is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant and is often used in landscaping.

How to Grow European Cranberry Bush - Plant Care & Tips

Alternative name

  • European Vaccinium
  • Cranberry
  • Highbush Cranberry
  • Cranberry Bush
  • Mooseberry

Basic info

  • The scientific name for the European cranberry bush is Viburnum opulus.
  • It is a deciduous shrub that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America.
  • The European cranberry bush can grow to be up to 15 feet tall.
  • The leaves of the European cranberry bush are 3-5 inches wide and have 5-7 lobes.
  • The flowers of the European cranberry bush are white and have 5 petals.
  • The fruit of the European cranberry bush is a red berry that is about 1/2 inch in diameter.
  • The European cranberry bush is often used as an ornamental plant.
  • The European cranberry bush is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests.
  • The European cranberry bush is considered to be invasive in some parts of North America.
  • The European cranberry bush is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family.

Planting Process

  1. For european cranberry bush, first step is to find a desirable location. Look for a spot in your yard that gets full sun and has well-drained soil.
  2. Once you have found the perfect location, it is time to prepare the soil. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the root ball.
  3. Loosen the roots of the european cranberry bush before placing it in the hole. This will help the plant to establish itself more quickly.
  4. Fill the hole with soil, being sure to pack it around the roots.
  5. Water the plant well after planting.
  6. Cranberry bushes are drought tolerant, so they do not need to be watered frequently. However, they will benefit from an occasional deep watering.
  7. Fertilize the bush in early spring and again in mid-summer.
  8. Cranberry bushes are generally self-fertile, so you will not need to worry about planting more than one.
  9. The bushes will produce fruit in late summer or early fall.
  10. Enjoy your fresh cranberries!

Related plant:
European Fan Palm

Soil Condition

About soil condition, the European cranberry bush prefers well-drained, moist soils, but it can also tolerate slightly dry soils. This shrub is not particular about soil type, as long as the soil is not too alkaline.

Light condition

Just like other plants, the European cranberry bush needs sun to grow. The amount of sun it needs depends on the climate it is growing in. In hot climates, the bush needs more sun than in cooler climates. It is important to make sure the bush gets enough sun so that it can produce fruit.

The Temperature

The temperature condition of the European cranberry bush is cool to cold. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soils. The plant is also tolerant of salt and drought.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50-70%. If the environment is too dry, the leaves will start to turn brown and crispy. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and fall off.

Fertilizer Requirement

Mentioning fertilizer, this kind of plant needn't too much, just give it some every month or so. As for the roots, they like to be left undisturbed, so when you're transplanting or moving them, be careful not to damage them.

Plant Pruning

Pruning your European Cranberry Bush is an important part of keeping it healthy and vigorous. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. There are a few different ways you can prune your bush. You can thin it out by removing some of the oldest, woodiest stems. Or you can rejuvenate it by removing all the stems down to 6-12 inches. This will promote new growth from the base of the plant. Whichever way you choose to prune, be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears. This will help prevent disease and damage to the plant.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is normally done by seed, although rooting softwood cuttings taken in late spring can also be successful. Sow seed in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in late summer or early autumn. Seedlings usually flower in their second or third year. Layering can be done in late summer.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the species of plant. However, there are a few general things that affect all plant growth rates. The first is the amount of sunlight the plant receives. The second is the amount of water the plant gets. The third is the type of soil the plant is in.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are drought, root rot and pests. Drought can cause the leaves to turn brown and drop off, while root rot can kill the plant. Pests such as aphids, scale and mealybugs can infest the plant and cause damage.

Tips on Growing

  • Do not forget to water your plant regularly. Cranberry bushes need moist soil to thrive.
  • Place your plant in an area with full sun exposure.
  • Use a soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
  • Fertilize your plant regularly using a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune your plant regularly to encourage new growth.
  • Be sure to remove any unwanted leaves or branches.
  • monitor your plant for pests or diseases and take appropriate action if necessary.
  • Train your plant by tying it to a support structure.
  • Mulch around your plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Enjoy the abundant fruit your plant produces!

Substitution

  • American cranberry bush (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
  • Asiatic cranberry bush (Vaccinium asiaticum)
  • Black cranberry bush (Vaccinium fuscum)
  • Bog cranberry bush (Vaccinium oxycoccos)
  • Cranberry bush (Vaccinium spp.)
  • Dangleberry bush (Vaccinium humundum)
  • Early black cranberry bush (Vaccinium stamineum)
  • Early lowbush cranberry bush (Vaccinium angustifolium)
  • Late lowbush cranberry bush (Vaccinium vitis-idaea)
  • Small cranberry bush (Vaccinium microcarpum)

Source:
Highbush Cranberry (Viburnum trilobum OR Viburnum
Cranberries: University of Illinois Extension
Cranberries - Washington State Magazine

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category