Shade intolerant , generally only present as a relic in climax bogs that have developed a conifer overstory. An indicator of moist to very wet, nitrogen-poor soils and high surface groundwater. Also an indicator of coniferous swamps. Members of the family Ericaceae easily regenerate from rhizomes following fire using ash nutrients for rapid growth. Able to survive low to moderate severity fires because rhizomes are found well below the surface of the bog.
Wildfires are infrequent in the wet or saturated habitats that bog cranberry generally occupies.
Fire usually top-kills Small Cranberry. Severe fires that remove the underlying sphagnum layer generally kill underground reproductive organs. Without fire, eventually shaded out by taller shrub and tree species. Commercial cranberry growers often use fire to maintain bogs and increase fruiting. Small mammals such as chipmunks, squirrels, rabbits, and hares may occasionally feed on the berries.