The family contains 3 genera and only 4 species.

Empetrum Nigrum L. Crowberry

The only species. This well-known prostrate shrub, with wiry branches and linear leaves, pale red flowers and black berries, is locally common in the Alps, and is an example of a plant which, though usually growing on the hills, is sometimes found at sea-level in England (as in Dorset), in the Arctic regions, and at over 8000 feet in the Alps of Europe. May to July.

Distribution

Europe, Asia, North America, Arctic regions.