Black Huckleberry (Vaccinium ovalifolium)

Family: Ericaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Vaccinium ovalifolium is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower in June. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Mildly acidic. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; A pleasant sweet flavour.; The fruit is a reasonable source of vitamin C.; The fruit can also be dried for later use when they have a flavour like raisins.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets, open woods and peaty slopes. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)