Black Huckleberry

Gaylussacia baccata

Physical Characteristics

Gaylussacia baccata is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Newfoundland to Georgia, Manitoba, Wisconsin and Kentucky.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 3, 55]. Deliciously spicy and sweet, they can be eaten out of hand or used in pies, preserves etc[183]. They can also be dried for later use[62]. The dried fruit can be ground into a powder then mixed with cereal flours to make bread[257]. The fruit is rather seedy[235]. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Dysentery Miscellany An infusion of the leaves, or the bark, has been used in the treatment of dysentery[257]. An infusion of the leaves has been used in the treatment of Bright's disease[257].

Known Hazards

None known