Wild blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium) are small, perennial shrubs native to North America. These hardy plants produce clusters of small, sweet, and nutritious berries. They thrive in acidic, well-drained soils and are important for wildlife as well as human consumption. Wild blueberries are valued for their antioxidant properties and are often used in culinary and medicinal applications.

Data:

  • Habitat:

    • Temperature: Ideal: 15-25°C (59-77°F); Range: -40°C to 35°C (-40°F to 95°F) with proper winter hardiness.
    • Pressure: 101.3 kPa (1 atm); adapted to various altitudes.
    • Humidity: 50-80% optimal; drought-tolerant but benefits from regular moisture.
    • Oxygen: Standard atmospheric levels (19.5-23.5%).
    • CO2: Tolerable up to 0.1%; normal plant respiration.
    • Light: Full sun to partial shade; 6-8 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth.

  • Nutrition:

    • Water: 1-2 cm of water per week; requires moisture but not waterlogged soil.
    • Soil: Acidic soil (pH 4.0-5.5) rich in organic matter; well-draining.
    • Nutrients:
      • Nitrogen: Essential for leaf growth.
      • Phosphorus: Important for root and fruit development.
      • Potassium: Supports overall plant health and disease resistance.
    • Vitamins: Produces Vitamin C and antioxidants in its berries.
    • Minerals: Requires Magnesium and Calcium for healthy growth.

  • Production:

    • CO2: Absorbs CO2 during photosynthesis; helps regulate local carbon levels.
    • Berries: Produces small, sweet, blue-black berries in summer (typically July-August).
    • Leaves: Deciduous; green leaves turn red in autumn.
    • Seeds: Small seeds dispersed by birds and animals; also by natural fruit fall.

  • Reproduction:

    • Method: Sexual and vegetative; spreads by seeds and rhizomes.
    • Cycle: Flowers in spring; berries mature in mid to late summer.
    • Pollination: Relies on bees and other pollinators; wind can aid seed dispersal.
    • Offspring: Can spread via rhizomes, forming dense patches over time.

  • Sleep/Rest:

    • Cycle: Dormant during winter months; growth resumes in spring.
    • Active Period: Spring to late summer for flowering and fruiting.

  • Lifespan: Perennial; individual plants can live for decades, and patches can persist for centuries.

  • Growth:

    • Maturity: Berry production begins 2-3 years after planting.
    • Size: Typically 15-60 cm in height; dense low-growing shrubs.

  • Uses:

    • For Humans: Fresh consumption, baking, jams, and medicinal use.
    • Ecosystem: Provides food for birds, mammals, and pollinators; stabilizes soil and promotes biodiversity.

  • Special Traits:

    • Cold Hardiness: Extremely resistant to freezing temperatures; survives harsh winters.
    • Antioxidants: Berries contain high levels of anthocyanins, beneficial for health.
    • Rhizomatic Growth: Spreads via underground rhizomes, forming extensive patches.
    • Pollinator Attraction: Flowers attract bees, promoting cross-pollination.
    • Soil Adaptability: Thrives in nutrient-poor, acidic soils unsuitable for many other plants.
    • Longevity: Perennial nature allows it to endure and expand for generations.