Red Bilberry, Red huckleberry

Vaccinium parvifolium

Physical Characteristics

Vaccinium parvifolium is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft) by 1.8 m (6ft). 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) and is pollinated by Bees. 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 moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - Alaska to California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw or cooked and used in making jams, pies, jellies etc[1, 2, 101, 118, 183, 257]. The fruit can also be dried for later use[183]. An acid flavour, but it is very palatable[11]. The fruit makes a very superior jelly[257]. The fruit is about 12mm in diameter[200]. A tea is made from the dried fruit and leaves[118].

Medicinal Uses

Antiseptic Astringent Carminative Hypoglycaemic Antiseptic, astringent, carminative, hypoglycaemic[172]. A decoction of the bark has been used in the treatment of colds[257].

Known Hazards

None known