Farkleberry (Vaccinium arboreum)

Family: Ericaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Vaccinium arboreum is an evergreen Tree growing to 5 m (16ft 5in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant flavour. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Dry and slightly astringent but with a pleasant flavour.; Dry and insipid according to another report whilst another says that it is dry, sweet and mealy and yet another says that it is bitter and inedible.; The fruit is about 6mm in diameter.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist sandy soils by ponds and streams. Usually found in most shady slightly alkaline soils along stream banks, bluffs, hammocks and in open woods. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)