American Cranberry Seeds

American Cranberry

(Vaccinium macrocarpon)

Vaccinium macrocarpon, commonly known as American cranberry, is a low-growing, evergreen shrub native to northeastern North America. It's most well-known for producing the bright red berries that are a staple in juices, sauces, and holiday meals.

Plant Characteristics: 

Family: Ericaceae (heath family)

Growth habit: Creeping, woody vine with wiry stems

Height: Usually 4 to 8 inches tall, but spreads horizontally

Leaves: Small, leathery, and dark green in summer; turn reddish in fall

Flowers: Pinkish-white, bell-shaped, appear in late spring to early summer

Fruit: Red berries ripen in late summer to early fall

Habitat & Growing Conditions: 

Native Range: Primarily northeastern U.S. and southeastern Canada

Preferred Soil: Acidic (pH 4.0–5.5), sandy, peaty, or boggy soils

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Moisture: Requires consistently moist soil; naturally found in wetlands and bogs

Uses: 

Culinary: Berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C; used in sauces, jams, juices, and dried snacks

Medicinal: Traditionally used by Indigenous peoples for urinary tract health and wound care

Ornamental: Can be grown in acidic bog gardens or containers

Zones: 2 to 6

Germination Range: 60-80%

Stratification Requirement: 30-60 days cold moist stratification required. Seed required light for best germination results. 

Planting Instructions:

Seed Stratification:

Cold Stratify:
Cranberry seeds need cold stratification to break dormancy.

Mix the seeds with moist sphagnum moss, peat, or sand in a plastic bag.

Refrigerate at about 1–4°C (34–39°F) for 30-60 days

Check Periodically:
Make sure the medium stays slightly moist, not soggy, and look out for early germination.

Sowing the Seeds:

Prepare a Tray or Pots:
Use a shallow seed tray or small pots with a mix of:

2 parts peat moss

1 part sand or perlite
(Cranberries prefer acidic, well-draining soil.)

Sow the Seeds:

Sprinkle the seeds on the surface of the soil.

Press them in gently, but do not cover—they need light to germinate.

Moisture and Light:

Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.

Cover with a humidity dome or plastic wrap if needed.

Place in bright, indirect light or under grow lights.

Germination Time:

Germination may take 3 to 6 weeks, sometimes longer.

Seedling Care: 

Transplanting: Once seedlings have a few true leaves, transplant them carefully into individual pots.

Soil: Continue using acidic soil.

Water: Cranberries prefer moist, acidic conditions, similar to bogs.

Light: Full sun is ideal once they’re established.