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Description
Vaccinium Scoparium, commonly known as Grouseberry, Whortleberry, or Red Huckleberry, is a species of flowering plant in the heath family Ericaceae. It is native to the western United States and Canada, from Alaska to California and eastward to Montana and Wyoming. It is a deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 1-3 meters tall and 0.5-2 meters wide. It produces small red, edible berries that are sour and often used in jams and pies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Vaccinium |
Appearance
The leaves of Vaccinium Scoparium are small, oval-shaped, and glossy green, turning red or yellow in the fall. The flowers are small, pink or white, and bell-shaped, blooming in late spring to early summer. The berries are small, round, and bright red, with a sour taste. The bark is reddish-brown and smooth, becoming gray and scaly with age.
Care Guide
Vaccinium Scoparium prefers moist, well-drained soil that is acidic (pH 4.5-5.5) and rich in organic matter. It requires partial shade to full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize annually with a slow-release acidic fertilizer in early spring. Mulch with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune lightly after fruiting to promote new growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vaccinium Scoparium is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by leaf spot, powdery mildew, or spider mites. These can be treated with fungicides or insecticides, respectively. Birds may also eat the berries, so consider using netting to protect the crop.
Habitat
Vaccinium Scoparium grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. It is commonly found in the understory of coniferous forests and can tolerate some shade. It is an important food source for birds and mammals, including grouse, squirrels, and bears.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to prune Vaccinium Scoparium?
A: Prune lightly after fruiting to promote new growth.
Q: What is the pH range for the soil that Vaccinium Scoparium prefers?
A: Vaccinium Scoparium prefers soil that is acidic (pH 4.5-5.5).
Q: What are some common pests that may affect Vaccinium Scoparium?
A: Vaccinium Scoparium may be affected by leaf spot, powdery mildew, or spider mites.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Vaccinium Scoparium?
A: Vaccinium Scoparium is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Vaccinium ovalifolium
- Vaccinium parvifolium
- Vaccinium vitis-idaea
- Vaccinium corymbosum
References
- “Vaccinium scoparium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280124&isprofile=0&.
- “Vaccinium scoparium.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=VASC.
- “Red Huckleberry.” Pacific Northwest Native Plants. https://www.pnwplants.wsu.edu/PlantDisplay.aspx?PlantID=32.
