Evergreen Huckleberry, Florist's Huckleberry, Shot Huckleberry, Californian Huckleberry

Vaccinium ovatum

Physical Characteristics

Vaccinium ovatum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in) at a slow rate. It is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from October to December. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) 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. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Western N. America - British Columbia to California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use[3, 101, 105, 118, 183, 257]. Somewhat sweet but slightly dry[183, 256]. The fruit is quite palatable but is nothing special[K]. A strong flavour, they are usually cooked in pies, preserves etc[177, 183]. The fruit will often hang on the bush until early winter[256]. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter[200]. A tea is made from the leaves and dried fruit[101].

Medicinal Uses

Antiseptic Astringent Birthing aid Carminative Hypoglycaemic The leaves are antiseptic, astringent, carminative and hypoglycaemic[172]. An infusion of the leaves and sugar have been given to a mother after childbirth to help her regain her strength[257]. A decoction of the leaves has been used in the treatment of diabetes[257].

Known Hazards

None known