Madeiran Whortleberry (Vaccinium padifolium)

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

Vaccinium padifolium is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. 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, Fall, Late Summer, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. Sweet. Black, juicy and gratefully acid. The fruit is about 12mm in diameter. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Black, juicy and gratefully acid.; The fruit is about 12mm in diameter.

Habitat & North American Range

Mountains at altitudes between 900 and 1500 metres. (Zone 8)