Rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum)

Rabbiteye blueberry

Also known as: Southern black blueberry, Twiggy whortleberry

Vaccinium virgatum is commonly known as rabbiteye blueberry as it's a species of blueberry. The plant itself is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 91 to 183 cm tall with a spread of up to 91 cm. The spirally-arranged leaves develop into dark green and tend to be 8 cm long. It bears berries as fruit which is often 5 mm in diameter. The berries this plant produces are edible and routinely used for sauces and syrups.

Scientific classification

Species

Rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Early summer, Mid summer

Harvest Time

91 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

Pink, White

Flower Color

Green, Red, Burgundy

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Culture

Symbolism

Healing

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Quickly Identify Rabbiteye blueberry

Rounded to vase-like growth, 6-10 feet tall (1.8-3 meters)

Bell-shaped white to pink flowers in spring

Distinct blue-black berries, smooth surface, ripe in late summer

Alternate, elliptic to obovate leaves, 1-3 inches long (2.5-7.5 cm)

Green to reddish stem, slender, smooth, up to 2 feet long (60 cm)

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Care Guide for Rabbiteye blueberry

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Rabbiteye blueberry thrives in humid environments and prefers consistent moisture without being waterlogged. Weekly watering mimics its natural habitat. As an outdoor plant in temperate regions, mulching is beneficial for retaining soil moisture, especially during the peak water demand in the fruiting season.

Fertilize: Rabbiteye blueberry requires balanced nutrition for optimal growth and berry yields. Use a granular, slow-release fertilizer in spring and after fruit set, starting with 1 ounce per plant, increasing yearly to a max of 8 ounces. Avoid over-fertilization and test soil annually to meet nutrient needs.

Pruning: Rabbiteye blueberry produce small, sweet berries and benefit from winter pruning before new growth. Remove dead wood, thin crowded branches, and cut back oldest canes to promote new growth. This practice enhances fruit yield, maintains shape, and improves air circulation and sunlight exposure.

Propagation: Propagate rabbiteye blueberry using semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy plants during active growth. Use a well-draining soil mix, maintain consistent moisture, and apply rooting hormone to enhance root development. Protect young plants from extremes to ensure robust growth, leading to sweet, edible berries.

Repotting: Repot rabbiteye blueberry every 2-3 years in late winter to support growth. Use a slightly larger pot for root fit. After repotting, provide ample water and partial sunlight, avoiding harsh afternoon rays. Regularly monitor soil moisture for optimal health.

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Culture

Quickly Identify Rabbiteye blueberry

Care Guide for Rabbiteye blueberry

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