Lingonberry Plants

Also called cowberry

Lingonberry plants (Vaccinium vitis-idaea) are native to the cold, northern regions of Europe and North America. Lingonberry plants are most popular in parts of Europe, where the tart red fruit is harvested and often combined with sugar for jam, or paired with pears and served alongside various meats. Related to the lowbush cranberry, nutritious lingonberries are jam-packed with vitamins and minerals and provide many similar health benefits. Lingonberry plants exhibit exceptional cold-hardiness and have no significant pest or disease issues. They tolerate moist soils, but require a low soil pH to thrive, like blueberries. Lingonberry plants are low-growing evergreen shrubs, staying under 2 feet in height. Use these small-sized plants for groundcover an attractive border hedge. As a wildlife bonus, plant lingonberry plants as a food source for birds and other animals.

To ensure your growing success and satisfaction, there are a few things to consider when you buy a lingonberry plant.

Zone Compatibility

Lingonberry plants are exceptionally cold hardy. Some varieties may grow well in zone 2 and can handle temperatures as cold as -50ºF. Even so, your climate plays an important role in whether a lingonberry plant will produce fruit or even survive. Before ordering a plant, make sure its recommended hardiness zone range includes your area.

Proper Pollination

All of these lingonberry plants are self-pollinating, so planting a pollinating partner to increase the size of your crops is completely optional. You’ll get fruit with only one plant!