•Status in Florida: Native
•Size at Maturity: Green Darwin’s Blueberry typically grows as a small shrub, reaching heights of about 2 to 4 feet tall.
•Phenology: Perennial shrub with small white flowers that bloom in spring, followed by the development of green berries that ripen to a purplish-black color in summer.
•Life Cycle: Perennial
•Bloom Season: Spring
•Deciduous, Dioecious, Evergreen: Deciduous
•Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
•Soil Texture: Well-drained sandy or loamy soils; prefers acidic soil conditions
•Soil pH: Acidic soil pH (pH 4.5-5.5)
•Moisture Requirements: Moist soil; benefits from regular watering, especially during dry periods
•Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low tolerance
•Recommended Landscape Uses: Native plant gardens, edible landscapes, woodland gardens, naturalized areas
•Maintenance Tips: Low maintenance; prune as needed to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches; mulch around the base to retain moisture
•Considerations: Green Darwin’s Blueberry is highly attractive to pollinators and provides important habitat and food for various wildlife species. It is also valued for its edible berries, which are enjoyed by humans and wildlife alike.
•Deer and/or Rabbit Resistance: Moderately resistant; may be browsed by deer and rabbits, especially in areas with high populations
•Edible: Yes, the berries of Green Darwin’s Blueberry are edible and can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and baked goods.
•Medicinal Uses: Green Darwin’s Blueberry is valued for its high antioxidant content and potential health benefits, including supporting heart health and aiding in digestion.
•Toxicity to Pets: Not known to be toxic to pets, but ingestion of large quantities of berries may cause gastrointestinal upset.
•Florida Native Companion Plant: Green Darwin’s Blueberry is often found growing alongside other native plants in various habitats, including species such as Southern Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera) and Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana).
•Wildlife Benefit: Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies; provides habitat and food for insects, birds, and other wildlife.
