Evergreen Huckleberry • Vaccinium ovatum

An attractive, low-growing evergreen shrub native to the western coastal regions of North America, Evergreen Huckleberry will grow between 3 to 6 feet tall and up to 10 feet wide, especially in moist, shaded locations. It's beautiful pink speckled flowers produce dark, sweet and tangy berries that are edible and a favorite of local wildlife. 

As temperatures rise and daylight increases at the end of Winter, evergreen huckleberries begin their active growth phase. New leaves emerge, and the shrub produces small, bell-shaped flowers that are white or pale pink in color. 

By early summer, after successful pollination, the flowers develop into small green berries. As summer progresses, the berries ripen and turn dark purple to black, indicating they are ripe.

In some cases, evergreen huckleberry can continue to produce berries into early fall, extending food sources for wildlife.

Evergreen huckleberries thrive in woodland areas or areas with filtered sunlight. Avoid planting them in either full sun or deep shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining and moderately acidic, with a pH between 4.5 to 6.0.

Provide ample water immediately after planting to help the plant settle into its new environment. Afterward, maintain consistent watering until the plant is established, usually over the first year. Once established, evergreen huckleberries are relatively drought-tolerant, but they still like a regular drink during dry spells.

If necessary, prune sparingly after berry harvest. Heavier pruning should be in mid winter, ensuring the plant has entered it's dormancy phase.