Vaccinium angustifolium var laevifolium – Early Sweet Blueberry; Lowbush Blueberry

General Information: A naturally-selected variety of Lowbush Blueberry native to our farm in Southampton, MA. Clusters of small, white, bell-shaped flowers offset the neat, lance-shaped leaves in late spring. In most years, fruit begins ripening here in early July. The fruit of this species is generally considered the best of the Lowbush Blueberries, packing a whole mouthfull of sweetness into one tiny berry!  The bushes often develop colorful, deep red fall foliage. Spreads by means of an extensive root system to form a solid cover. Very long-lived, and exceptionally effective at resisting invasion by other plants. An outstanding “edimental” native plant for use as a productive, attractive, low-maintenance ground cover. Especially well-suited for barren, sandy, acidic soils. Highly attractive to pollinators, especially Honey Bees. Low-Bush Blueberry honey is considered a delicacy. While fond of dry conditions, a steady moisture supply while the fruit is developing and ripening is recommended.

Edible Qualities: These are the same species as the quintessential Maine Blueberry. Fruits and flowers are both prolific, making this a wonderful dual-purpose plant for Beekeepers.

Cultivation Details: This plant is considered self-fertile. A single plant will produce fruit. For optimal fruit production, two or more plants of different genetics should be planted. Consider pairing with V. angustifolium ‘Ruby Carpet’ for pollination. Lowbush Blueberries may also pollenize with Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) and Hillside Blueberry (Vaccinium pallidum), as hybrids of these species have been observed in the wild. The fruits are produced on a two-year cycle, with alternating years of growth and fruit set. Producers of these berries in Maine will often divide their fields, mowing or burning half to induce vegetative growth while the other half is in fruit production.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to part shade. Plants in full sun produce more flowers, fruits, and a more vibrant fall color than those in part shade. Prefers thin, sandy, or loamy soils. Does not tolerate clay. Prefers dry to moist, well-drained soils. Requires acidic or neutral soils. Does not tolerate alkaline soils.

Note: Due to the trailing and somewhat superficial nature of this plant’s root system, we ship these plants balled and burlapped. Root balls are roughly the equivalent of a 1-gallon pot.