Vaccinium Macrocarpum, Ben Lear and Pilgrim, are similiar to low-lying lingonberries in that they are mat-forming, creeping plants with heights up to 16" tall and twice as wide (up to 30").  Stevens is a dwarf variety that only grows up to 12 inches tall, but is considered to have the sweetest, least tart berries on the market. Cranberries require a pollinator, which is why it is recommended that you buy at least two of the three varieties.
 
Flowers bloom late spring to early summer followed by large, plump and edible red berries that mature in mid- to late-fall. Attracts songbirds, butterflies, and large numbers of native bees. Fast-growing and very cold hardy. Before planting, prepare ground by digging in lots of composted organic matter. Plants begin bearing fruit one to two years after planting. Prune in winter, cutting out dead or damaged branches.

When ready for harvesting, these two cultivars turn deep red with a purplish blush. Deep skin pigments are an indicator of high antioxidant content and a range of other beneficial vitamins and minerals. They can be eaten fresh or dried, cooked up as a jam or sauce – or strung up as a Christmas tree decoration. A dense evergreen, they hold pride of place in an edible garden. Most cranberries require a watery bog to grow in, but these two cultivars are exceptional in that they can thrive out of a watery environment. Zones 4-8