Vaccinium angustifolium

Common Names

Lowbush Blueberry, Early Lowbush Blueberry, Low Sweet Blueberry, Late Lowbush Blueberry, Wild Blueberry, Low Bush Blueberry, Sweethurts, Wild Lowbush Blueberry

Summary

Lowbush blueberry is a North American native deciduous shrub that forms dense colonies via rhizomes, remaining low-growing with glossy blue-green leaves; white flowers bloom in spring (flushed pink) in clusters, and edible blue to black berries mature in summer, with bronze fall color adding seasonal interest.

Prefers acidic, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade; mulch to retain moisture and acidity; propagation by seed or cuttings; cross-pollination by native bees improves fruit set; pruning every 2–3 years maintains vigor; harvest occurs in mid to late summer; fruits are edible and used in jams, preserves, and fresh eating; landscape uses include ground cover, edible landscape, wildlife habitat, and erosion control; hardy in zones 2a–8b.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

2-24 inches

Spread

4 inches to 2 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 2-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun; tolerates partial shade.

Soil Type

Acidic, well-drained soil with pH 4.0–5.5, typically sandy or loamy, lime-free and rich in organic matter.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained acidic soils.

Soil pH

4.5-5.5

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Dark green

Fall Foliage Color

Red

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Moderate growth rate

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds