Lowbush Blueberry
Low deciduous shrub reaching 15-60 cm tall. Features small, oval leaves and bell-shaped white to pink flowers followed by edible blue berries. Requires acidic, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. Spreads by underground rhizomes to form colonies. Spectacular fall color. Provides food for wildlife and humans. Suitable for acidic soil gardens, naturalized areas, and edible landscaping. Native to northeastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: White to Pink
Bloom Time: Late Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Dry to Moist-Drained
Phenology: Leaves emerge late April-May. Bell-shaped flowers appear May-June. Berries ripen blue-black July-August. Brilliant fall color develops September-October, often spectacular. Winter structure shows fine branching pattern.
Wildlife Value: Berries eaten by >40 bird species and small mammals; flowers support native bees and butterflies; important wildlife food source; provides low cover for ground-nesting birds
Habit Over Time: Creates expanding mats of low shrubs that maintain consistent height. New shoots emerge throughout colony from underground rhizomes. Fall color can be spectacular across entire colonies.
Height: Short to Medium (6-24 inches)