This native shrub has three-lobed leaves of dark green that approximate a maple leaf in shape.  Unlike most viburnums, the marginal flowers of all V. opulus species are englarged.  The American highbush cranberry is very similar to the European highbush cranberry, and has to be told apart by the shape of petiolar glands.  The fruits are edible but are quite bitter.  While the native plant prefers the wet and boggy soils that the name "cranberry" brings to mind, the plant is resilient and will tolerate a wide range of soil types.