Gaylussacia brachycera

Gaylussacia baccata, also known as the black huckleberry, is a small shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to the eastern regions of North America, and is particularly prevalent in the Appalachian Mountains.

Description

The Gaylussacia baccata typically grows to a height of 1-2 meters. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and have a leathery texture. The shrub produces small, bell-shaped flowers in the spring, which are typically white or pink in color. The fruit of the Gaylussacia baccata is a small, black berry that is sweet and edible.

Habitat and Distribution

Gaylussacia baccata is found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, pine forests, and bogs. It prefers acidic, well-drained soils. The shrub is distributed throughout the eastern United States, from Maine to Florida, and west to Indiana and Louisiana.

Uses

The berries of the Gaylussacia baccata are edible and have been used by Native American tribes for centuries. They can be eaten fresh or used in cooking and baking. The leaves of the shrub have also been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.

Conservation Status

The Gaylussacia baccata is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many native plant species, it faces threats from habitat loss and degradation.

See Also

• Ericaceae
• Huckleberry
• Appalachian Mountains