Vaccinium corymbosum (Highbush Blueberry)

Vaccinium corymbosum (Highbush Blueberry) is a bushy, upright deciduous shrub with small oval blue-green leaves turning attractive shades of red, yellow, orange, and purple in the fall. In late spring to early summer, urn-shaped creamy-white flowers give way to clusters of blue blueberries that are relished by songbirds, game birds, bears, and small mammals. Winter provides charming interest, with the reddish twiggy branches forming a lovely silhouette. Although blueberries are self-fertile, cross-pollination produces the best fruit crop (larger berries and larger yields). For optimal pollination and yield, plant more than one variety with the same bloom time. Bees are the primary pollinators for blueberry flowers and are an essential partner in producing blueberries. Rich in nectar, the flowers also attract butterflies. Valued for its berries and brilliant fall foliage, Highbush Blueberry is excellent for naturalized landscaping.

• Grows up to 6-12 ft. tall (180-360 cm) and 8-12 ft. wide (240-360 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is best grown in moisture-retentive, organically rich, acidic soil. Plant in a sheltered site and provide good organic mulch.
• Perfect for mixed shrub borders in cottage gardens. Can be grown as a hedge too. Great fruiting shrub with Rhododendrons and Azaleas.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Watch out for vine weevil, powdery mildews, and chlorosis (manganese and iron deficiencies).
• Prune as needed in late winter beginning in the third year after planting.
• Propagation: Take 4-6in (10-15cm) softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer.
• Native to eastern North America.