Vaccinium myrsinites (Evergreen Blueberry)

Vaccinium myrsinites (Evergreen Blueberry) is a low-growing, erect, much-branched, evergreen shrub with small, alternate, elliptic leaves that are glossy green to gray-green and copiously pubescent to glabrous. Attractive clusters of 2-8 urn-shaped, white to deep pink or reddish-tinged flowers bloom in spring. They attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The blossoms are followed by a profusion of edible, black berries in late spring or summer – a delight for many species of birds and other wildlife – humans enjoy them, too. Juicy and of fair quality, the berries can be eaten raw or cooked. Native to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, Evergreen Blueberry occurs naturally in mesic pine flatwoods, sandhills, scrubby flatwoods, dry prairies, and scrub habitats. Evergreen Blueberry is a rhizomatous shrub, commonly forming extensive colonies. Primarily recommended for natural landscapes and habitat restorations, it is suitable as an accent shrub too. Solitary plants rarely produce fruit. Placing multiple, unrelated plants together will result in fruit production.

• Grows up to 1-2 ft. tall and wide (30-60 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in dry to moist, well-drained, acidic soils. Drought tolerant once established.
• Suitable for a low hedge or beds and borders. It works well in a naturalistic landscape as well as a container.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Little pruning is needed to maintain a pretty-looking shrub.
• Propagate by division, ground layering, seed (can be difficult to germinate).
• Native to the southeastern Coastal Plain and Gulf Coast from South Carolina through southern Georgia and northern Florida to southwestern Alabama. It extends southward to peninsular Florida.