Rabbiteye Blueberry

(Vaccinium virgatum)

Rabbiteye Blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Vaccinium virgatum, commonly known as Rabbiteye Blueberry, is a deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States, particularly found in pine barrens, open woodlands, and along forest edges. It typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall with a spread of up to 3 feet. The shrub is characterized by its small, white, bell-shaped flowers that are about 5 mm long and appear in spring. The fruit is a dark blue to black berry, around 5 mm in diameter, with a distinctive pale blue-gray bloom due to a thin wax coating. The berries are not only edible but also highly nutritious and flavorful.

Rabbiteye Blueberry is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its bright orange or red fall foliage. It is commonly used in gardens for its attractive flowers and fruit, and as a naturalizing element in landscapes. This plant thrives in acidic soils and requires cross-pollination with another Rabbiteye Blueberry variety for optimal fruit production. Mulching helps the plant withstand low temperatures down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. While generally low-maintenance, it is important to protect the fruit from birds and squirrels. Cultivation requires full sun to part shade, medium water, and well-drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 3-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

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., Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Pine barrens, open woodlands, and forest edges

Other Names

Common Names: Southern Black Blueberry, Swamp Blueberry, Rabbit-Eye Blueberry

Scientific Names: , Vaccinium virgatum, Vaccinium amoenum, Vaccinium corymbosum var. amoenum, Vaccinium virgatum var. speciosum, Cyanococcus virgatus, Cyanococcus amoenus, Vaccinium virgatum var. ozarkense,

GBIF Accepted Name: Vaccinium virgatum Aiton