Vaccinium vitis-idaea ‘Red Candy (PBR)’ (cowberry) £6.99
Position: full sun Soil: prefers moist, but freely draining acidic soil but will grow in sandy or normal soil Rate of growth: fast-growing Other features: edible but acidic red berries Hardiness: fully hardy Clusters of pink-flushed white flowers are followed by shiny red berries from mid- to late summer. These berries have a tart flavour, but can be harvested and eaten straight away (if you have a sweet tooth try crushing them up with a bit of sugar), or cooked and sweetened to make jam or compote. They appear on a low-growing, evergreen shrub, which will slowly spread to form a generous, leafy clump. Originating from the Arctic and alpine regions of Northern Europe and North America, this plant is incredibly tough and robust. Garden care: Prepare the ground well before planting by digging in lots of composted organic matter. Prune in winter, cutting out dead or damaged branches. In spring, feed with sulphate of ammonia, sulphate of potash and bonemeal and top-dress with ericaceous compost.