About

An upright to spreading, deciduous shrub with dark green leaves that show good autumnal colour. This early-ripening cultivar produces heavy yields of large, light blue berries in midsummer.

About the genus

Vaccinium can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs or small trees, with simple leaves and small, bell- or urn-shaped flowers followed by juicy, sometimes edible berries

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand, Clay
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeFruit Edible, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationPlant in a sheltered site in well-drained, moisture-retentive, acidic soil, (pH 4.5-5.5) in sun or part shade. Alternatively grow in containers or raised beds filled with peat-free, ericaceous compost . Pot grown plants benefit from winter protection. For optimal pollination and yield plant three different cultivars. See blueberry cultivation for further advice
PruningMore mature plants benefit from regular pruning, see blueberry pruning
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil, especially if container grown
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, root rot and chlorosis due to iron and manganese deficiency; see nutrient deficiencies