Description
BLUE HORIZON HUCKLEBERRY
Gaylussacia brachycera
The Box Huckleberry is one of the oldest native plants found east of the Rocky Mountains. Its origin of the species can be traced back thousands of years, where one plant colony in Pennsylvania was estimated to be 13.000 years old. The plants are low-growing shrubs, attaining a mature height of 6 to 8 inches and can spread outward by underground rhizomes. The deep red burgundy colors of the autumn foliage put on a spectacular display in any landscape. In the spring, pink-tinged white flowers bloom in profusion and will produce fruit during the summer. The foliage is a handsome, deep, glossy green. Blue is self-pollinating, although fruit size will increase slightly if one or more of the other cultivars are planted together. The dainty, light-blue berries are edible and are similar in taste to lowbush blueberries, with hint of acidity.
The Blue Horizon plant is found in the mountainous regions of the Alleghenies. The plants grow hidden among pine and hardwood trees but escape to appear in open areas of full sun and stretch outward to the limits of the horizon or other forested patches. The gorgeous foliage is a mix of deep red and burgundy. The flowers are self-pollinating producing light blue fruits which are edible with refreshing with sweet undertones.
The plants grow best in well-drained soils with a soil pH of 4.5 to 5.8. They will grow in full sun or shade; cultivars will thrive in USDA Zones 5 to 7.
Care Info
- Scientific Name:Gaylussacia brachycera
