Empetrum nigrum
Empetrum nigrum 2
Empetrum nigrum 3
Empetrum nigrum 4
Empetrum nigrum 5
Empetrum nigrum 6
Empetrum nigrum 7
Empetrum nigrum 8
Empetrum nigrum
Empetrum nigrum 2
Empetrum nigrum 3
Empetrum nigrum 4
Empetrum nigrum 5
Empetrum nigrum 6
Empetrum nigrum 7
Empetrum nigrum 8

Empetrum nigrum | Crowberry | Black Crowberry | 30 Seeds

Regular price $8.79 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 124): Computation results in '-Infinity'%
/

Only 16 items in stock!

Empetrum nigrum, commonly known as black crowberry, is a captivating evergreen shrub that thrives in cold-climate environments. Its slender, reddish-brown wiry stems give rise to a low-growing mat, adorned with small, glossy deep green leaves. These scale-like leaves emit a resinous fragrance when crushed, adding to the sensory allure of the plant. In late spring, inconspicuous yet intriguing urn-shaped flowers, ranging in color from pink to purplish, grace the shrub, attracting pollinators. Following the flowering stage, the plant produces distinctive black berries, initially green and then maturing to their dark hue. These berries, measuring 6 to 8 mm in diameter, hold significance beyond their visual appeal; they are rich in antioxidants and serve as a vital food source for various wildlife, insects, and birds. Notably resilient, black crowberry finds its niche in subarctic rocky habitats, contributing to ecosystem stability by offering sustenance. Moreover, indigenous communities recognize the cultural value of its berries, employing them in culinary and medicinal practices. In essence, Empetrum nigrum stands as a resilient symbol of cold-climate adaptation, ecological significance, and cultural importance.  Zones 3-8

Germination

To encourage successful seed germination for Empetrum nigrum, commonly known as black crowberry, follow these steps. Start by collecting ripe berries from the plant. Remove the seeds from the berries and wash them thoroughly to remove any pulp. Stratify the seeds by placing them in a plastic bag with a moistened mixture of peat moss and sand, then seal the bag and refrigerate it for 2-3 months at temperatures around 32-40°F (0-4°C). This stratification mimics natural winter conditions, breaking seed dormancy. After stratification, prepare a well-draining seed-starting mix in trays or pots. Sow the seeds on the surface of the mix and gently press them down for good seed-to-soil contact. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Provide bright, indirect light to the seeds. Germination can be slow and may take several weeks to several months, so patience is essential. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual containers or your garden, ensuring they receive appropriate sunlight and regular watering for healthy growth.