Vaccinium scoparium: Difference between revisions
CSV import |
CSV import |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
== Vaccinium scoparium == | == Vaccinium scoparium == | ||
[[File:Vaccinium_scoparium_16883.JPG|thumb|right|Vaccinium scoparium in its natural habitat]] | |||
'''Vaccinium scoparium''', commonly known as the [[grouse whortleberry]] or [[grouseberry]], is a species of [[Vaccinium]] native to the western regions of [[North America]]. It is a member of the [[Ericaceae]] family, which includes other notable species such as the [[blueberry]] and [[cranberry]]. | |||
== Description == | == Description == | ||
Vaccinium scoparium is a low-growing, deciduous shrub that typically reaches heights of 10 to 50 centimeters. The plant is characterized by its slender, green stems and small, ovate leaves that are finely serrated. The leaves are bright green during the growing season and turn a reddish hue in the fall. | |||
The flowers of | The flowers of Vaccinium scoparium are small, bell-shaped, and pinkish-white in color. They bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small, red berry that matures in late summer. These berries are edible and are an important food source for various wildlife, including [[grouse]], which is how the plant gets its common name. | ||
== Habitat and Distribution == | == Habitat and Distribution == | ||
Vaccinium scoparium is found in subalpine and montane regions, often growing in coniferous forests. It thrives in well-drained, acidic soils and is commonly found at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,600 meters. The species is distributed across the western United States and Canada, from [[British Columbia]] and [[Alberta]] south to [[California]] and [[New Mexico]]. | |||
== | == Ecological Importance == | ||
[[File:Vaccinium_scoparium_16883.JPG|thumb|left|Close-up of Vaccinium scoparium berries]] | |||
Vaccinium scoparium plays a significant role in its ecosystem. The berries provide a food source for birds and mammals, including [[bears]], [[deer]], and [[small mammals]]. The plant also serves as a host for various insects and contributes to the biodiversity of the forest understory. | |||
The dense growth of Vaccinium scoparium can help prevent soil erosion and contribute to the stability of forest ecosystems. Its presence indicates healthy, undisturbed forest environments. | |||
== Uses == | == Uses == | ||
While | While not as widely cultivated as other Vaccinium species, Vaccinium scoparium is sometimes used in [[landscaping]] for its attractive foliage and berries. The berries, though small, are edible and can be consumed raw or used in [[jams]] and [[jellies]]. | ||
== Related Pages == | |||
== Related | |||
* [[Vaccinium]] | * [[Vaccinium]] | ||
| Line 34: | Line 34: | ||
* [[Cranberry]] | * [[Cranberry]] | ||
= | {{Taxonbar|from=Q157303}} | ||
[[Category:Vaccinium]] | [[Category:Vaccinium]] | ||
[[Category:Flora of | [[Category:Flora of North America]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Edible fruits]] | ||
Latest revision as of 16:25, 16 February 2025
Vaccinium scoparium[edit]
Vaccinium scoparium, commonly known as the grouse whortleberry or grouseberry, is a species of Vaccinium native to the western regions of North America. It is a member of the Ericaceae family, which includes other notable species such as the blueberry and cranberry.
Description[edit]
Vaccinium scoparium is a low-growing, deciduous shrub that typically reaches heights of 10 to 50 centimeters. The plant is characterized by its slender, green stems and small, ovate leaves that are finely serrated. The leaves are bright green during the growing season and turn a reddish hue in the fall.
The flowers of Vaccinium scoparium are small, bell-shaped, and pinkish-white in color. They bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small, red berry that matures in late summer. These berries are edible and are an important food source for various wildlife, including grouse, which is how the plant gets its common name.
Habitat and Distribution[edit]
Vaccinium scoparium is found in subalpine and montane regions, often growing in coniferous forests. It thrives in well-drained, acidic soils and is commonly found at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,600 meters. The species is distributed across the western United States and Canada, from British Columbia and Alberta south to California and New Mexico.
Ecological Importance[edit]
Vaccinium scoparium plays a significant role in its ecosystem. The berries provide a food source for birds and mammals, including bears, deer, and small mammals. The plant also serves as a host for various insects and contributes to the biodiversity of the forest understory.
The dense growth of Vaccinium scoparium can help prevent soil erosion and contribute to the stability of forest ecosystems. Its presence indicates healthy, undisturbed forest environments.
Uses[edit]
While not as widely cultivated as other Vaccinium species, Vaccinium scoparium is sometimes used in landscaping for its attractive foliage and berries. The berries, though small, are edible and can be consumed raw or used in jams and jellies.
