Shiny Blueberry

(Vaccinium myrsinites)

Shiny Blueberry (Vaccinium myrsinites)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Vaccinium myrsinites image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Vaccinium myrsinites, commonly known as Shiny Blueberry, is an evergreen shrub native to pine flatwoods, dry sandy woods, and scrubby areas in the Southeastern United States. This species typically grows to about one meter (40 inches) in height and is known for its rhizomatous growth habit, which allows it to form extensive colonies. Some of these colonies are remarkably old, with the largest recorded being over 1,000 years old and spanning one kilometer (0.63 miles) across. Shiny Blueberry is predominantly evergreen, though some forms may be deciduous. Its flowers are urn-shaped or cylindrical, white to pink, or red-tinged, and appear in clusters of up to 8, each flower being nearly one centimeter long. The flowering season is in the spring, and the flowers are followed by attractive blue-black berries that are edible and favored by wildlife.

Shiny Blueberry is valued for its ornamental features, including its glossy foliage and delicate flowers. It is used in naturalistic plantings, as a ground cover, and in wildlife gardens. The plant thrives in dry, sandy, acidic soils and requires full sun for optimal growth. It is relatively low-maintenance, needing only medium amounts of water once established. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils. Gardeners should be aware that it can spread vigorously, potentially becoming too aggressive in some settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, 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, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to pine flatwoods, dry sandy woods, and scrubby areas in the Southeastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Evergreen Blueberry, Southern Evergreen Blueberry

Scientific Names: , Vaccinium myrsinites, Vaccinium nitidum, Vaccinium corymbosum var. myrsinites, Cyanococcus myrsinites, Vaccinium myrsinites var. lanceolatum, Vaccinium myrsinites var. obtusum, Vaccinium nitidum var. decumbens,

GBIF Accepted Name: Vaccinium myrsinites Lam.