General Information: Huckleberries, the common name for several species of plants in the closely related genera Gaylussacia and Vaccinium. Exceptionally rugged, long-lived, and low-maintenance. The Black Huckleberry belongs to Gaylussacia, a genus of about 40 species of shrubs, mostly native to South America, but several are native to North America. Some of these species are cultivated chiefly as ornamentals. This species is notable for its orange to red bell-shaped flowers from May to July, its edible Blueberry-like fruits from July to September, and its crimson fall foliage. Initially starting as a standalone bush, under normal forest conditions, the plants spread slowly via rhizome to form a somewhat sparse, ground cover. We have observed this species benefits greatly from tree falls and logging operations. This plant is host to several species of moth. The berries are a favorite food source for birds and mammals, notably Black Bears. A fire-resistant species that benefits greatly from controlled burns. In fire-managed areas where we have observed this species, the bushes resprout vigorously after a fire to form a solid ground cover but do not bear fruit until the following year. This plant is an important source of food and medicine for Indigenous Peoples of North America.
Edible Qualities: This “edimental,” drought-resistant, shade-tolerant plant grows well in the forest understory, but for fruit production, they should have plenty of light. They thrive in rocky or sandy soils, especially in Oak-Pine forests. The abundant fruits are set in July and can continue until September if they are not browsed by wildlife. The sweet and flavorful berries, around ½ inch in diameter, are often gathered along with wild Blueberries. They have a similar flavor profile and ripening time. Huckleberries are a bit sour and seedier but are still quite delicious for eating out of hand. They are also useful in many of the same recipes as Blueberries and can be used as a substitute or Blueberry extender.
Cultivation Details: This plant is considered self-fertile, however, for optimal fruit production plant 2 or more of a different variety. Exhibits rich red fall foliage. Grows 1½-3 feet with a 12-18 inch canopy. Their small stature allows for easy netting against animals, but they are also a good wildlife food source. In their natural habitat, these plants spread their rhizomes through the organic layer of the soil. They will prefer rich, moist soils with some mulch. Provide full sun plantings with deep mulch, they benefit from used chicken bedding as a mulch, especially bedding sourced from pine shavings.
Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to nearly full shade. Spreads most vigorously in full sun. Requires sufficient moisture in full sun. Succeeds in any well-drained soil. Requires acidic soil. Does not tolerate alkaline soils.
Fun Facts: Huckleberries of the genus Gaylussacia can be differentiated from Blueberries (genus Vaccinium) when they are not flowering or fruiting by examining their leaves. Huckleberries will have resin glands on both surfaces of their leaves, which appear somewhat like glitter; this trait is absent in Blueberries.
| Light Prefrences | Partial Shade |
|---|---|
| Soil Type | Dry Soil, Moist Soil |
| Landscape function | Ground Cover |
| Zones | Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8 |
| Variety | TBF Native, 'Michigan' |
Be the first to review “Gaylussacia baccata – Black Huckleberry”
Related products
$16.00
$26.00
Edible Fruit
Price range: $11.00 through $30.00
Attracts Wildlife
$17.00
$11.00
Attracts Wildlife
$24.00
Out of stock
Price range: $35.00 through $200.00
Attracts Wildlife
$28.00
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.