Lingonberry Koralle

Introduced from Sweden, lingonberries or cowberries (Vaccinium vitis-idaea) are becoming popular for their high antioxidant and vitamin content as well as for their delicious flavour.  Lingonberry Koralle is widely grown commercially; a low, creeping, evergreen shrub, with little bell-shaped, deep pink flowers in late spring and again in summer, it usually bears two crops a year. The wine-red berries are jewel-like, with a sharp, refreshing taste, reminiscent of cranberries, but superior; they make excellent sauces and preserves. Related to cranberries and blueberries, like them lingonberries must be grown in acid soil (pH4.5-5.5) or in ericaceous compost in containers. Good as ground-cover in forest gardens.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Needs moist, acid soil, preferably light or peaty
Position: Sun or partial shade
Pick: Late August and October
Keep: A few days in the fridge
Hardiness: Hardy
Pollination: Self-fertile
Uses: Cooking, preserving
Height: 3’ (1m) Spread: 3’ (1m)