Cranberry Flavored Water

Cranberry, Ericaceae Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait., this native American fruit grows on a prostrate evergreen "vine" though not a climber. The stems are actually rather tender to cold, but stand winter covering with water well. Thus in commercial culture where most are grown (Mass., Wisc., NJ) they are planted on peat bogs prepared so they can be covered with water in winter. The berries are borne on short uprights 6 to 8 inches in length, rising from the dense mass of stems prostrate on the soil surface. Fruit has a smooth skin, is generally round, eliptical, or bell shaped and about 0.33 inch in diameter and 0.5 to 1 inch long. Inconspicuous seeds are attached at the center of the fruit and surrounded by the tart pulp. Plantings persist for many years if properly managed. Weed control is a major problem.