Lingonberry

Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), also known as cowberry or lingonberry, is a small evergreen shrub in the heath family (Ericaceae). The fruit is a bright red berry that is edible and widely used in Nordic and Baltic cuisines. Lingonberries are native to boreal forests of Europe, Asia, and North America.

Lingonberry is a creeping, woody shrub that forms mats. It has small, leathery evergreen leaves and produces clusters of white to pink flowers in spring. Fruits ripen from late summer to autumn and persist on the plant through winter.

Fruits are tart and commonly processed into jams, juices, sauces, and preserves. Lingonberry sauce accompanies meats, notably in Sweden with meatballs, but is also used with fish, game, and in baked goods. In markets they appear fresh in some regions and frozen elsewhere.

Lingonberries contain moderate amounts of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and polyphenols, including proanthocyanidins. They are low in calories and have a distinct tart flavor.

Prefers acidic, well-drained soils, often under conifer canopies. Propagated by layering or cuttings, it is hardy in cool climates. Commercial production centers in northern Europe, Russia, and North America. Harvest occurs in late summer to autumn; berries are delicate and store poorly fresh but freeze well.