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Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 19 Oct 2026methodology → read

Cranberry-myrtle

Myrteola nummularia
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Myrteola nummularia (Cranberry-myrtle) — botanical photograph
Pl. 7EEB — Myrteola nummularia
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Overview

Cranberry-myrtle, scientifically known as Myrteola nummularia, is a small shrub native to South America, including regions such as Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, the Falkland Islands, and Peru. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate various soil types, from light sandy to heavy clay, making it adaptable to different growing conditions. Known for its edible fruit and leaves, cranberry-myrtle is both ornamental and useful as a food source. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow in dry to moist environments, contributing to its widespread distribution across diverse habitats. The fruit and leaves of cranberry-myrtle can be harvested for culinary use, adding a unique flavor to teas and other dishes. While not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, its adaptability and edible parts make it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes in suitable climates. Cranberry-myrtle grows to a height of 0.1 meters and is hardy in zones 7-10. Propagate through cuttings or seeds.

Quick answers

What is Cranberry-myrtle?

Cranberry-myrtle, scientifically known as Myrteola nummularia, is a small shrub native to South America, including regions such as Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, the Falkland Islands, and Peru.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Cranberry-myrtle thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can tolerate dry to moist conditions and is hardy in zones 7-10. The plant grows to a height of about 0.1 meters and is native to regions in South America, including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, the Falkland Islands, and Peru. For cultivation, ensure the soil is not overly wet, as it can handle some drought. Propagate via cuttings or seeds. The edible parts include the fruit and leaves.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Cranberry-myrtle for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple, low-maintenance Cranberry-myrtle for your first gardening experience.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Cranberry-myrtle cuttings or seeds, small pots, potting soil.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when temperatures are mild and stable.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants from small pots into larger ones as they grow.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil slightly moist and place in bright, indirect light.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Place in full sun. Water when dry but avoid overwatering. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune lightly to shape the plant and encourage new growth throughout the growing season.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, placing in direct sun, using heavy soil that doesn't drain well.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Ground cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 9 native
Americas5 regions
native (5)BoliviaColombiaEcuadorPeruVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Argentina South, Chile Central, Chile South, Falkland Is.
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Myrteola nummularia (Cranberry-myrtle) — botanical photograph
Cranberry-myrtle (Myrteola nummularia)
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