Vaccinium Darrowii

Description

Vaccinium Darrowii, commonly known as Darrow’s blueberry, is a shrub native to the southeastern United States. It is a deciduous plant that typically grows to be between 3 and 6 feet tall. The shrub produces small, white, bell-shaped flowers in the spring, which are followed by blue-black berries in the summer. The fruit is edible and has a sweet, slightly tart taste. Vaccinium Darrowii is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and fruit.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Vaccinium Darrowii has dark green, glossy leaves that are about 1-2 inches long and ½ inch wide. The leaves turn red in the fall before dropping. The shrub has a compact, rounded growth habit and produces many branches. The flowers are about ¼ inch long and are borne in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small, blue-black berry that is about ¼ inch in diameter.

Care Guide

Vaccinium Darrowii prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. The shrub should be fertilized in the spring with a slow-release, acid-loving fertilizer. Vaccinium Darrowii prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Vaccinium Darrowii is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including mites, leaf spot, and stem canker. The shrub should be inspected regularly for signs of infestation or disease, and any affected plant material should be removed immediately. Proper care, including regular watering and fertilization, can help to prevent pest and disease problems.

Habitat

Vaccinium Darrowii is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and along stream banks. The shrub prefers moist, acidic soils and is often found in areas with high rainfall.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Vaccinium Darrowii easy to grow?

A: Yes, Vaccinium Darrowii is relatively easy to grow as long as it is given the proper care, including regular watering and fertilization.

Q: Can Vaccinium Darrowii be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Vaccinium Darrowii can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant and has good drainage.

Q: Is Vaccinium Darrowii a good choice for a wildlife garden?

A: Yes, Vaccinium Darrowii is a good choice for a wildlife garden as the fruit is attractive to birds and other wildlife.

Q: Does Vaccinium Darrowii require pruning?

A: Vaccinium Darrowii does not require pruning, but it can benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased wood.

Related Plants

• Vaccinium ashei
• Vaccinium corymbosum
• Vaccinium pallidum
• Vaccinium tenellum

References

• “Vaccinium Darrowii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f670.
• “Vaccinium Darrowii.” North Carolina State University, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/vaccinium-darrowii/.
• “Darrow’s Blueberry.” Clemson Cooperative Extension, www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/plants/landscape/shrubs/hgic1067.html.