Vaccinium corymbosum 'Bluecrop' is a classic highbush blueberry variety prized for its abundant midseason fruit and excellent cold hardiness. Its upright bushy habit and profuse white spring flowers give way to clusters of large flavorful blue berries, perfect for fresh eating, baking, and preserves. Attractive red and orange fall foliage provides multi seasonal landscape interest.
Height & Spread: 48 - 72 in x 48 - 72 in
Bloom Time: Mid spring
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Acidic, well drained, organically rich soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; consistent moisture is key during fruit development
Deer Resistance: Low; protect from browsing wildlife
Native Status
Vaccinium corymbosum is native to North America, thriving in acidic soils in woodland edges and boggy habitats from the eastern and northern United States.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Flowers provide abundant nectar and pollen for honeybees, bumblebees, and native solitary bees in spring.
Butterflies
- Supports spring butterflies like Spring Azures and provides summer fruit for their habitat needs.
Birds
- Fruits are a major food source for thrushes, catbirds, and cedar waxwings, especially in midsummer.
Beneficial Insects
- Dense foliage shelters predatory beetles and parasitic wasps aiding in natural garden pest control.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space plants 48 - 72 in apart to allow for full growth and airflow between bushes.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for edible landscapes, hedgerows, or mixed borders where ornamental foliage and fruit are appreciated.
Companion Plants
- Gaylussacia baccata (Black Huckleberry) - Small native shrub that enhances pollinator and bird habitats.
- Kalmia latifolia (Mountain Laurel) - Adds evergreen interest and clusters of spring blooms.
- Azalea 'Northern Hi-Lights' - Deciduous azalea with fragrant yellow blooms that thrive in acidic soil.
- Rhododendron catawbiense - Acid loving shrub providing evergreen structure and spring color.
- Fothergilla gardenii - Compact native shrub with fragrant spring flowers and vibrant fall foliage.