Genus Vacinnium (Blueberry, Cranberry, Huckleberry)

vak-SIN-ee-um

Common Name: Blueberry, Cranberry, Huckleberry

The genus Vacinnium contains evergreen to deciduous shrubs and trees with ornamental foliage, flowers, and fruit. Leaves are leathery and alternate. Deciduous species provide striking autumn color. Berries are edible. Vacinnium species have wide distribution from arctic to tropical regions in a variety of habitats including heath, moorland, bogs, and woodland. Flowers of distinctly urn, bell, or cylindrical shapes appear in spring and summer.
Noteworthy characteristics: Some species are grown primarily for their edible blueberries or cranberries.
Care: Acidic, peaty or sandy, moist but well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade. Minimal pruning.
Propagation: Sow seed in autumn; take wood cuttings in summer.
Problems: Caterpillars, scale insects, gray mold, galls, dieback, crown and root rot, powdery mildew, and rust.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Vacinnium

Vaccinium corymbosum
(Highbush blueberry) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

Highbush blueberry provides four seasons of fanfare, starting with twisted, peeling stems in winter; profuse white or pink blossoms in spring; savory blue fruit in summer; and long-lasting foliage the color of a rich red wine in fall. The maroon to scarlet fall shades are effective for a solid month or more, as the leaves (especially in full sun) are reluctant to fall. The best fruit set occurs when you plant at least two cultivars that will bloom concurrently to ensure cross-pollination.