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red crowberry
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red crowberry

plant
Also known as: Empetrum rubrum
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Quick Summary

The red crowberry (Empetrum rubrum) is a low, heathlike shrub native to subantarctic regions like Chile, Argentina, and the Falkland Islands. It is a member of the genus Empetrum, which belongs to the heath family. This plant is characterized by its red, edible berries, which are somewhat acidic and serve as a vital food source for various animals, including songbirds, waterfowl, bears, and voles. Indigenous peoples have historically utilized crowberries for both food and medicinal purposes. The shrub typically grows to about 25 cm (10 inches) tall and has narrow, succulent leaves. In some areas, red crowberry is a primary component of peat deposits.123

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