October 7th, 2022 - Highbush Cranberries

Getting Hands on in the Hammond: Featured Species

Highbush Cranberries The highbush cranberry is actually not a cranberry at all, though its fruit, or ‘drupes’ as they are known taxonomically, strongly resemble cranberries in both appearance and taste, and they also mature in the fall, as cranberries do. While native to North America, the highbush cranberry is a Viburnum, a member of the Honeysuckle family, while the ‘true,’ or lowbush cranberry, which is a Vaccinium, a member of the Heather family. Loved by wildlife, these berries also make excellent jelly; however, it can be quite pungent while boiling, so be sure to keep your windows open if you don’t want your house to smell like dirty feet!