Vaccinium uliginosum

Vaccinium uliginosum fruit

Vaccinium uliginosum, commonly known as bog bilberry, bog blueberry, or northern bilberry, is a species of flowering plant in the heath family (Ericaceae), native to cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is a low-growing, deciduous shrub that thrives in acidic soils in bogs, moorlands, and mountains. The plant is notable for its edible fruit, a berry that is smaller and darker than the common blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum).

Description

Vaccinium uliginosum typically grows to 10–75 cm (4–30 in) tall, with a sprawling habit. The leaves are lanceolate to oval, 1–3 cm long, and feature a finely serrated margin. They turn a striking red or purple in the fall, providing ornamental value. The flowers are bell-shaped, white to pale pink, and appear in late spring. The fruit is a dark blue to black berry, with a distinctive bloom. It is both a food source for wildlife and a foraged food for humans, appreciated for its unique flavor in jams, juices, and baking.

Habitat and Distribution

Vaccinium uliginosum has a circumboreal distribution, found in the northern latitudes of Europe, Asia, and North America. It prefers moist, acidic soils and is commonly found in boggy areas, alpine tundras, and coniferous forests. The plant's ability to thrive in harsh, nutrient-poor environments is attributed to its symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi, which enhances nutrient uptake.

Cultivation and Uses

While not as widely cultivated as other members of the Vaccinium genus, Vaccinium uliginosum is valued for its edible berries and ornamental qualities. It requires acidic soil (pH 4.5–6) and can be propagated by seed or cuttings. The berries are harvested in late summer and are used in a variety of culinary applications. They are rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins and vitamin C, making them a nutritious addition to the diet.

Conservation

In some regions, Vaccinium uliginosum is considered rare or threatened due to habitat loss, primarily from the drainage of wetlands and peat bogs for agriculture and development. Conservation efforts focus on protecting natural habitats and promoting sustainable harvesting practices.

Gallery

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See Also

• Vaccinium
• Blueberry
• Bog
• Mycorrhiza