Black Highbush Blueberry

(Vaccinium fuscatum)

Black Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium fuscatum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Vaccinium fuscatum, commonly known as Black Highbush Blueberry, is a deciduous shrub native to wetland margins, pine barrens, and open, acidic woodlands in the Eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 10 feet (3 meters) and a width of 3 feet (0.9 meters). This species is characterized by its small, bell-shaped flowers that are greenish-pink to white, blooming in late winter to early spring, followed by dark blue to black edible berries. The foliage can turn a striking red or purple in the fall, adding seasonal interest.

Black Highbush Blueberry is valued for its edible fruit, which is high in antioxidants and can be used in culinary applications. It is also planted for wildlife habitat restoration and as an ornamental in naturalistic garden settings. This shrub thrives in acidic, moist, well-drained soils and benefits from mulching with pine needles or peat moss to maintain soil acidity. It requires consistent moisture and can tolerate partial shade, although fruit production is best in full sun. Gardeners should be aware of potential issues with fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and stem blight, and should provide good air circulation to minimize these problems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-11 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wetland margins, pine barrens, and open, acidic woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Hairy Highbush Blueberry, Downy Swamp-Huckleberry

Scientific Names: , Vaccinium fuscatum, Vaccinium atrococcum, Vaccinium arkansanum, Vaccinium corymbosum var. atrococcum, Vaccinium corymbosum var. fuscatum, Cyanococcus fuscatus, Vaccinium corymbosum var. atrocarpum, Cyanococcus atrococcus, Vaccinium atrococcum f. atrococcum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Vaccinium fuscatum Aiton