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Description
Vaccinium Ovatum, commonly known as California Huckleberry, is a native, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is found along the Pacific coast of North America from British Columbia to Baja California. This shrub is a popular choice among gardeners due to its ornamental value and edible berries. Vaccinium Ovatum can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide, making it a great choice for hedging or as a background plant in a garden bed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Vaccinium |
Appearance
The leaves of Vaccinium Ovatum are oval-shaped, dark green, and glossy. They can grow up to 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are bell-shaped and white, growing in clusters of 2-4. The fruit of Vaccinium Ovatum is a deep blue or black berry, about the size of a blueberry, with a sweet and tangy flavor. The berries ripen in late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
Water: Vaccinium Ovatum prefers moist soil, but make sure not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize Vaccinium Ovatum in the spring with an acidic fertilizer to maintain soil pH. Avoid using fertilizers high in nitrogen as it can promote leaf growth at the expense of fruit production.
Soil: Vaccinium Ovatum prefers well-draining acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. If the soil pH is too high, add sulfur to lower it.
Sunlight: Vaccinium Ovatum prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot areas, protect it from afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: Vaccinium Ovatum is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vaccinium Ovatum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Common pests include spider mites and aphids. Diseases that affect this shrub include leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure to provide adequate air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, treat with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Vaccinium Ovatum is native to the Pacific coast of North America, from British Columbia to Baja California. It is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, chaparral, and coastal scrub. This shrub prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate moderate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Vaccinium Ovatum tolerate salt spray?
A: No, Vaccinium Ovatum is not tolerant of salt spray.
Q: When is the best time to prune Vaccinium Ovatum?
A: The best time to prune Vaccinium Ovatum is in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Are the berries of Vaccinium Ovatum edible?
A: Yes, the berries of Vaccinium Ovatum are edible and have a sweet and tangy flavor. They can be used in jams, pies, and other desserts.
Q: How often should I fertilize Vaccinium Ovatum?
A: Fertilize Vaccinium Ovatum once a year, in the spring, with an acidic fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Vaccinium corymbosum
- Vaccinium parvifolium
- Vaccinium arboreum
References
- Armitage, A. M. (2018). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Vaccinium ovatum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=VAOV
