Cultivated blueberries were derived from this tall-growing shrub! However, our plants are grown from wild collected seed. This shrub requires acidic soil and full sun to part shade. It produces tiny white, bell-shaped flowers in the spring followed by wild blueberries which mature in August. The berries are small but very tasty and can be eaten raw or cooked. We suggest having more than one plant to produce a higher number of berries. In the wild, the berries are enjoyed by birds and mammals and the twigs and foliage are eaten by deer and rabbits. This shrub produces brilliant burgandy to red fall foliage. Peat is a common soil amendment for this species, but there are other more sustainable alternatives. Plant as a hedge or as a mixed shrub border.
Please note that this plant is fairly sensitive and does require low pH soil to thrive. If your soil is more basic (higher pH), you could consider growing this plant in a pot with specialized soil media. Read more about growing blueberries here, courtesy of the Halton Region Master Gardeners.
Photo credits: Bagley Pond Perennials and Leaves for Wildlife Native Plant Nursery
