Contents
Description
Vaccinium Tenellum, commonly known as the small blueberry or southern blueberry, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the southeastern United States. It belongs to the Ericaceae family and is closely related to other blueberry species. The shrub produces small, delicate blueberries that are a popular food source for wildlife and humans alike. It is a low-growing shrub that typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet and a spread of 2-3 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Vaccinium |
| Species | Tenellum |
Appearance
Vaccinium Tenellum has delicate, thin branches that are green in color and covered in small, oval-shaped leaves. The leaves are typically 1-2 cm long and have a glossy, dark green appearance. In the spring, the shrub produces small, bell-shaped white flowers that are tinged with pink. These flowers give way to small, round blueberries that are approximately 5-8 mm in diameter. The blueberries are covered in a waxy coating that gives them a bluish-gray appearance.
Care Guide
Vaccinium Tenellum is a hardy shrub that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for ensuring that your blueberry plant thrives:
- Water: Blueberry plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for blueberry plants. Apply it once in the spring and again in the fall.
- Soil: Blueberry plants prefer acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is too alkaline, consider adding sulfur to lower the pH.
- Sunlight: Blueberry plants require full sun to thrive. Plant them in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Vaccinium Tenellum is hardy in zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vaccinium Tenellum is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
- Blueberry Maggot: This pest lays eggs in the fruit, causing it to become infested with maggots. Use insecticides to control infestations.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes dark spots to appear on leaves and fruit. Remove infected plant material and use fungicides to treat the plant.
- Mummy Berry: This disease causes the blueberries to shrivel up and turn brown. Remove infected plant material and use fungicides to treat the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots to appear on the leaves. Remove infected plant material and use fungicides to treat the plant.
Habitat
Vaccinium Tenellum is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including pine forests, sandhills, and savannas. It is typically found growing in acidic, well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Vaccinium Tenellum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Vaccinium Tenellum can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches in diameter and has good drainage.
Q: When is the best time to prune Vaccinium Tenellum?
A: Prune Vaccinium Tenellum in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: How often should I fertilize Vaccinium Tenellum?
A: Fertilize Vaccinium Tenellum once in the spring and again in the fall with a fertilizer that is specifically designed for blueberry plants.
Q: How long does it take for Vaccinium Tenellum to produce fruit?
A: Vaccinium Tenellum typically produces fruit in its second or third year of growth.
Related Plants
- Vaccinium angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry)
- Vaccinium corymbosum (Highbush Blueberry)
- Vaccinium pallidum (Blue Ridge Blueberry)
- Vaccinium stamineum (Deerberry)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Vaccinium tenellum
- North Carolina State University Extension: Vaccinium tenellum
- Clemson Cooperative Extension: Blueberry: Vaccinium spp.
