Type
heirloom, early-ripening
Cranberry variety
Early Black Cranberry
A historic Massachusetts cultivar with dark red fruit and early harvest. Its earlier maturity is useful where autumn frosts come early.
Season
September
Best for
short growing seasons, sauce
About Early Black
Early Black is an old cranberry cultivar that ripens early and produces dark red, pear-shaped berries. It is valued for its early harvest and good color.
Growing Early Black Cranberry
Grow Early Black in acidic, organic soil with steady moisture and full sun. Harvest when berries are fully red, and manage weeds and moisture carefully because cranberry vines are shallow rooted.
Full growing guide
For planting, care, pollination, and harvest that apply to all cranberry, see the complete guide.
How to grow CranberryOther cranberry varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; chill hours, hardiness, and pollination vary, so confirm suitability for your zone. Availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.