Dwarf Bilberry, Dwarf huckleberry
Vaccinium caespitosum
Family: Ericaceae
What it is like
It is a small shrub. It grows 10-25 cm high and spreads 60 cm wide. The stems are finely branched and grow close to the ground. It loses its leaves during the year. The leaves are small and sometimes have teeth along the edge. The flowers are pink or cream. The fruit are bluish berries. They are 6 mm wide. They are edible.
Where it is found
It is a cold temperate plant. It grows in alpine regions of NE United States. It grows on the dry needle-littered floor of pine forests. It suits hardiness zones 2-8.
Countries/locations it is found in
Alaska, Arctic, Australia, Britain, Canada, Europe, Mexico, North America, USA
How it is used for food
The fruit are used for preserves and pies. The fruit are sweet and can be eaten fresh.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
It is grown from runners that have uprights and roots.
Its other names
Local names
Arandano, Dwarf blueberry