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Description
Gaylussacia Baccata, commonly known as black huckleberry or highbush huckleberry, is a native shrub found in the eastern regions of North America. It is a member of the heath family and is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 6 feet tall. The plant is characterized by its small, oval-shaped leaves and clusters of dark blue-black berries. These berries are edible and are often used in the preparation of jams and jellies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Gaylussacia |
Appearance
The black huckleberry plant has small, oval-shaped leaves that are about 0.5 to 1.5 inches long. These leaves are glossy green in color and have serrated edges. The plant produces clusters of small, bell-shaped, pinkish-white flowers that bloom from May to July. These flowers give way to dark blue-black berries that are about 0.25 inches in diameter. The berries are edible and have a slightly sweet taste.
Care Guide
Water: The black huckleberry plant prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.Soil: The black huckleberry plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. It also prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.Hardiness Zones: The black huckleberry plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The black huckleberry plant is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including the huckleberry root aphid, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, provide the plant with adequate water and air circulation, and remove any infected leaves or branches.
Habitat
The black huckleberry plant is native to the eastern regions of North America and is typically found in wooded areas, bogs, and swamps. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and clearings.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the black huckleberry plant poisonous?A: No, the black huckleberry plant is not poisonous. In fact, the berries are edible and are often used in the preparation of jams and jellies.Q: How often should I water my black huckleberry plant?A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Q: What is the ideal pH for black huckleberry soil?A: The black huckleberry plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect the black huckleberry plant?A: The black huckleberry plant is susceptible to the huckleberry root aphid, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Gaylussacia brachycera
- Gaylussacia dumosa
- Gaylussacia frondosa
- Gaylussacia mosieri
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Gaylussacia baccata (Wangenh.) K. Koch. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GABA
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Gaylussacia baccata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286007
- Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation. (n.d.). Gaylussacia baccata. Retrieved from https://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/syllabus/factsheet.cfm?ID=180
