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Description
Vaccinium Uliginosum, commonly known as bog blueberry or bog bilberry, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Ericaceae family. This plant is native to northern parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. It can grow up to 1.5 m tall and 3 m wide and has slender, woody stems. Its leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and glossy, and their undersides appear paler. During spring, the plant produces small, pinkish-white flowers that are bell-shaped and have five petals. The fruits of Vaccinium Uliginosum are small, blue-black berries that are edible and have a tangy flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Vaccinium |
Appearance
Vaccinium Uliginosum is a shrub that can grow up to 1.5 m tall and 3 m wide. Its stems are slender and woody, and its leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and glossy, with paler undersides. During spring, it produces small, pinkish-white flowers that are bell-shaped and have five petals. Its fruits are small, blue-black berries that are edible and have a tangy flavor.
Care Guide
Vaccinium Uliginosum requires moist soil that is acidic and well-drained. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 2-7. Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil moist, especially during the growing season. Fertilization should be done once a year in early spring using an acidic fertilizer. Pruning is recommended in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vaccinium Uliginosum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, it is important to ensure good air circulation around the plant and to avoid overhead watering. The plant can also be attacked by blueberry maggot, a type of fruit fly that lays eggs in the fruit. To control this pest, use insecticidal sprays or traps.
Habitat
Vaccinium Uliginosum is a plant that is native to northern parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. It grows in wetlands, bogs, and other moist habitats, such as swamps and tundra. It can tolerate acidic soil and is often found growing alongside other bog plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vaccinium Uliginosum a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Vaccinium Uliginosum is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can Vaccinium Uliginosum grow in full shade?
A: While the plant prefers full sun to partial shade, it can tolerate some shade.
Q: Can Vaccinium Uliginosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Vaccinium Uliginosum can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container and regular watering.
Q: Is Vaccinium Uliginosum deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Vaccinium Uliginosum is deer-resistant and is a good choice for gardens where deer are a problem.
Related Plants
- Vaccinium Angustifolium
- Vaccinium Corymbosum
- Vaccinium Macrocarpon
- Vaccinium Myrtillus
References
- “Vaccinium Uliginosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 October 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a815
- “Bog Blueberry.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 20 October 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=VAUL2
- “Vaccinium Uliginosum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 October 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/22285/Vaccinium-uliginosum/Details
