Have you been looking for a landscape shrub that is not only pleasing to the eye but also produces edible berries? With a vast array of shrubs to choose from, finding the right variety can be a little intimidating. Here we are highlighting two varieties - a blueberry and huckleberry - that will delight all year round. They are both decorative as well as versatile, attracting more wildlife and producing edible fruit.
When choosing a berry-producing shrub, look for Vaccinium varieties. All berries in this group are edible with some tastier than others. These shrubs encompass a wide array of plants including blueberries, huckleberries, and cranberries, just to name a few.
These two varieties perform well in the PNW and can make an excellent addition to your landscape. It’s not surprising that some Vaccinium shrubs are native to the PNW since they grow well in our naturally acidic soils. While they can tolerate partial shade, they will thrive in full sun producing more blossoms and fruit.
Sunshine Blue Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Sunshine Blue’)
© Richie Steffen / Great Plant Picks
The unique feature of ‘Sunshine Blue’ is that it's an evergreen displaying lovely foliage year round. In the spring, new foliage emerges with subtle shades of pink and purple. Summer months bring a continuous supply of delicious berries. This blueberry is worthy of your ornamental landscape beds, not just your garden. For more photos and descriptions, we recommend Great Plant Picks which highlights ornamental plants for our region.
Evergreen Huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum)
© Richie Steffen / Great Plant Picks
Evergreen Huckleberry is a native shrub to the PNW that has wonderful ornamental qualities. Its glossy foliage makes an excellent border hedge and an alternative to boxwood hedges. It produces diminutive, sweet berries with a showy display of flowers in the spring. It gets its name Vaccinium ovatum from its oval-shaped leaves. For more information, see the Great Plant Picks website.
© Richie Steffen / Great Plant Picks
Enhance your landscape with a berry-producing shrub. With the right placement and variety choice, you can enjoy an attractive shrub that offers edible fruit, attracts more wildlife, and displays beauty throughout the year.
