Cranberry bush
Viburnum grandiflorumfam. Adoxaceae
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Pl. 6510 — Viburnum grandiflorum
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IOverview
Overview
The Cranberry bush (Viburnum grandiflorum) is a deciduous shrub native to the Eastern Himalayas and surrounding regions including Assam, Nepal, Pakistan, and Tibet. Known for its edible fruit, this plant thrives in moist, light to medium soil types and can tolerate partial sun to full shade. Standing at about 2 meters tall, it is distinguished by its clusters of white flowers that precede the small, tart berries. This shrub not only adds ornamental value with its showy blooms but also serves as a source of edible fruit in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Cranberry bush?
The Cranberry bush (Viburnum grandiflorum) is a deciduous shrub native to the Eastern Himalayas and surrounding regions including Assam, Nepal, Pakistan, and Tibet. Known for its edible fruit, this plant thrives in moist, light to medium soil types and can tolerate partial sun to full shade.
What is Cranberry bush used for?
Traditionally used for immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of Cranberry bush
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Cranberry bush has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support immune health, often prepared as a decoction. Its use is based on the belief that it can help maintain overall well-being during seasonal changes.
The mechanism by which cranberry bush supports immune function is not fully characterised but may involve antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds present in the plant.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Cranberry bush support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cranberry bush thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 2 meters tall. For successful cultivation, ensure the plant receives adequate moisture and well-draining soil conditions. Propagation can be achieved through cuttings or seeds. The fruit of this plant is edible and can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cranberry bush for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Cranberry bush to enjoy its beauty and fruit.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Cranberry bush plant, garden gloves, a trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with light to partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining but moist, with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden bed, spacing them about 2 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of pests or diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering during dry spells and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches. Harvest fruit when they turn a deep red.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The cranberry bush (Viburnum grandiflorum) produces edible fruit that can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. The fruits are often harvested and consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. They may also be made into jams, jellies, or other preserves to enjoy their sweet-tart flavor.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaIndiaNepalPakistan
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Adoxaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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