Vaccinium pallidum – Blue Ridge or Hillside Blueberry

General Information: An excellent edible groundcover species. Especially useful in areas with thin, rocky soils or areas that frequently dry out. These Blueberries are happiest with partial shade, but they develop amazing coloration if planted in full sun. Some anecdotal reports describe this as the tastiest Wild Blueberry species there is. As an “edimental” plant, Hillside Blueberry has significant appeal as a ground cover and as a food source. The bluish-gray foliage takes on a burgundy hue when these plants are exposed to bright, direct sun. Even when partially shaded, they develop this stunning coloration each fall, and some of it remains in their stems. A mature colony of these plants brings refreshing color to the otherwise drab winter landscape.

Edible Qualities: These plants produce Blueberries throughout the summer, from June to August. They are small, but have a very good and strong flavor. Use them in any recipe calling for Blueberries, or enjoy them fresh!

Cultivation Details: This plant is considered at best partially self-fertile because the flowers of Vaccinium species have characteristics that prevent them from self-fertilizing, the flowers are usually protandrous, meaning the stamens (pollen-bearing structures) mature earlier than the styles (pollen-receiving structures). The stigmas become receptive to pollen only after the pollen of their own blossom has been dispersed.but will always produce more fruits when two or more are planted. Consider pairing ‘Partridge Lake’ and ‘Ruby Carpet’, or another highbush mid-season variety to maximize production. The species is also reported to hybridize with Lowbush Blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium), but whether they are fully compatible pollenizers is yet to be determined. To extend Blueberry production throughout the year, this species is an excellent companion to Vaccinium angustifolium laevifolium, which fruits in May and June, and the Vaccinium corymbosum varieties ‘Eliot’ and ‘Aurora’ which fruit in September. This species is drought tolerant once established. Consider planting in dry, sandy, or rocky sites with little overgrowth. Also suitable for planting in open forests, especially on hillsides or cliffs. Suitable as a groundcover, border planting, foundation planting (especially useful under the eaves of structures where rainfall does not reach), for rewilding, and as a ground-level plant in a food forest.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to part shade. Plants in part shade will not fruit as prolifically as those in the sun. Prefers dry to moist, well-drained soils. Exceptionally tolerant of very sandy sites. Requires acidic soil. Does not tolerate alkaline soils