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Description
Vaccinium Stenophyllum is a small shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is commonly known as Narrowleaf Huckleberry or Shrubby Blueberry. This plant is native to Western North America, particularly in the states of Oregon and Washington, where it grows in subalpine and alpine regions. Vaccinium Stenophyllum is an evergreen plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has narrow and leathery leaves that are dark green on top and pale green underneath. The flowers are small and white or pinkish, while the fruits are blue-black berries that are edible and sweet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Vaccinium |
Appearance
Vaccinium Stenophyllum is a small shrub that has a dense and bushy growth habit. It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide. The leaves are narrow, leathery, and elliptical in shape, measuring 1-3 cm long and 0.3-0.8 cm wide. They are dark green on top and pale green underneath. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, measuring 4-5 mm long and 3-4 mm wide. They are white or pinkish and appear in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruits are blue-black berries that are around 8-10 mm in diameter. They are edible, sweet, and have a pleasant flavor.
Care Guide
Vaccinium Stenophyllum is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: This plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with an acid-based fertilizer. Avoid using fertilizer that contains too much nitrogen as it can harm the plant.
- Soil: Vaccinium Stenophyllum prefers acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is alkaline, add peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH level.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: Vaccinium Stenophyllum is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vaccinium Stenophyllum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by some common problems such as:
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use fungicide to prevent further spread.
Habitat
Vaccinium Stenophyllum is native to Western North America, particularly in the states of Oregon and Washington. It grows in subalpine and alpine regions, usually in moist and rocky areas. It can also be found in forests, meadows, and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vaccinium Stenophyllum edible?
A: Yes, the fruits of Vaccinium Stenophyllum are edible and sweet.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Vaccinium Stenophyllum?
A: Vaccinium Stenophyllum is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Q: How often should I water my Vaccinium Stenophyllum?
A: Water your Vaccinium Stenophyllum regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Vaccinium Stenophyllum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the fruits of Vaccinium Stenophyllum are attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Related Plants
- Vaccinium deliciosum
- Vaccinium membranaceum
- Vaccinium ovalifolium
- Vaccinium parvifolium
References
- “Vaccinium Stenophyllum.” Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277512&isprofile=1&basic=vaccinium.
- “Vaccinium Stenophyllum.” Pacific Northwest Wildflowers, www.pnwflowers.com/flower/vaccinium-stenophyllum.
- “Narrowleaf Huckleberry (Vaccinium Stenophyllum).” Native Plant Trust, Native Plant Trust, 2021, www.nativeplanttrust.org/plants/vaccinium-stenophyllum.
