PLANT

Vaccinium corymbosum, also called giant blueberry, is a North American species of blueberry that has become an economically important food crop. It is native to eastern Canada and the southern United States. It is also naturalised in other places: Europe, Japan, New Zealand.

The bilberry is a deciduous shrub that reaches a height of 150/200 cm. The dark glossy green leaves are elliptical in shape and up to 5 centimetres long. In autumn, the leaves turn bright red, orange, yellow and purple.

FRUIT

Fruits are medium-large (1.8 g), flattened shape, bluish blue colour, very pruinose. Consistent flesh, good and aromatic taste.

PROPERTIES

Blueberries are rich in beneficial substances, are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Among the most important are:
-Citric acid: protects cells;
-Vitamin C: strengthens the immune system, improves circulation;
-anthocyanins and myrtillin: regenerates tissue and strengthens stomach walls, fights gastritis;
-Vitamin A: beneficial for bones, skin and eyesight;
-tannins: purify the liver, ideal for digestion.

POSITION

They prefer a sunny location that allows the fruit to obtain a high sugar content, but in an environment that is not overly exposed, and they require a good exposure to light to allow better flowering and, consequently, a higher yield.
Unlike all berries, which like a neutral/sub-acidic substrate, blueberries need a very acidic, pH-optimal (4.0 and 4.5), well-drained, fresh and humus-rich soil, so it is essential to be well aware of the characteristics of the substrate where you want to plant them.

MATURATION

The variety 'SWEETHEART' is re-flowering, reaching first ripening at the end of June and second ripening in September.