Winter Huckleberry Vaccinium arboreum

Sparkleberry is a small, deciduous to evergreen shrub or tree that may grow 10 to 20 feet tall. It can be found in rocky woodlands, sandy woodlands, and on cliffs. The leaves are alternate with a smooth or finely toothed margin. The bark is shredded and patchy with reds, browns, and grays present. In early summer, small, white, bell-shaped flowers mature. In the fall, this plant has excellent color. The tall shrub produces a black fruit that matures in the fall and is a good food source for wildlife.

Growing on racemes, the 1/4" flowers bloom for a short period, from late spring to early summer.  The bloom period extends for approximately 3 weeks.  Once the fertile flowers bloom, they are replaced by berries that will mature in the fall.  Each berry can contain up to 10 seeds which will reseed itself.  Wildlife eat the berries.

The upper surface of the leaves are medium green, glabrous and have a slight shine.  The underside is a pale green, glabrous to finely pubescent, the fine hairs occur along the central veins of the leaf.  While it is usually deciduous, the plant may stay evergreen throughout the winter in warmer southern regions.

Sparkleberry grows best in sun to partial shade and likes dry to moist sandy or rocky soil. It is drought and heat tolerant and a high-value wildlife plant.

The tallest of the genus blueberries, it is often referred to as huckleberry.

Fire Risk: This plant has a medium flammability rating.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  

More information on Vaccinium.