Vaccinium myrtillus

Vaccinium myrtillus is a species of shrub with edible fruit of blue color, commonly called "bilberry", "whortleberry" or "European blueberry". It has much in common with the American blueberry (Vaccinium cyanococcus). It is more precisely called Common Bilberry or Blue Whortleberry, to distinguish it from other Vaccinium relatives.

Taxonomy

The genus Vaccinium is a member of the Ericaceae family, which also includes the cranberry and lingonberry. The specific name myrtillus is derived from the Latin for "myrtle".

Description

Vaccinium myrtillus is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 60 cm high. The leaves are oval and serrated, and the flowers are bell-shaped and pink or red. The fruit is a dark blue berry.

Distribution and habitat

Vaccinium myrtillus is native to Europe, including the British Isles, Scandinavia and Russia, and it is also found in Asia Minor and the Caucasus. It grows in heathland and acidic soils.

Uses

The berries are used in traditional European medicine for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects. They are also used in the food industry for their flavor and color.

Cultivation

Vaccinium myrtillus is a hardy plant that can tolerate poor soil conditions and cold temperatures. It prefers acidic soils and full sun to partial shade.

See also

• Vaccinium
• Ericaceae
• American blueberry