About
A vigorous, deciduous shrub to 2m tall, with small, oval leaves turning red in autumn.Clusters of small, waxy,creamy-white flowers are followed bywell-flavoured, blue-black fruits ripening in mid- to late summer.
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 typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeFruit Edible, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationPlant in a sheltered site in moisture-retentive, acidic soil, (pH 4.5-5.5) in sun or part shade. This cultivar is very hardy and more tolerant of colder locations and heavy soils than others. Alternatively grow in containers or raised beds filled with ericaceous compost. For optimal pollination and yield plant three different cultivars. See blueberry cultivation for further advice
PruningMore mature plants benefit from regular pruning, see pruning blueberries
PropagationTake 10-15cm 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