Vaccinium corymbosum Duke (Highbush Blueberry)

Vaccinium corymbosum 'Duke' is a bushy upright deciduous shrub, with small oval dark green leaves turning attractive shades of yellow and orange in the fall. While blooming late in the season, the fruits ripen early. The advantage of this is that the blossoms will not be damaged by late spring frost. Dainty, waxy, bell-shaped, white flowers give way to medium to large, firm, light blue blueberries which ripen in early summer. The berries have a mildly sweet flavor and are a delight for birds, wildlife, and humans alike! Although blueberries are self-fertile, cross-pollination produces the best fruit crop (larger berries and larger yields). For optimal pollination and yield plant more than one variety with the same bloom time.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 5-7 ft. tall and wide (150-210 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is best grown in well-drained, moisture-retentive, organically rich, acidic soil. Plant in a sheltered site and provide good organic mulch.
• Perfect for mixed shrub borders in city gardens, cottage gardens, or coastal gardens. Can be grown as a hedge or in containers. Great fruiting shrub with Rhododendrons and Azaleas.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Watch out for vine weevil, powdery mildews, and chlorosis (manganese and iron deficiencies).
• Prune as needed in late winter beginning in the third year after planting.
• Propagation: Take 4-6 in (10-15 cm) softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer.