Vaccinium crassifolium aka Creeping Blueberry

Vaccinium crassifolium is a low evergreen shrub in the heath family. Its common names include creeping blueberry and thick-leaved whortleberry. It grows wild in the southeastern United States. Its range covers Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Wild plants grow in savannas, pine flatwoods, and sandy ground. They also occur in peaty pinelands and barrens.

The shrub forms clumps and spreads into a dense mat. Garden plants stand about 0.8–1.7 feet [0.25–0.51 metres] tall. They spread about 2–3 feet [0.61–0.91 metres] across. Oregon State describes shoots reaching 2 feet [0.6 metres] long. Growth proceeds at a moderate rate. The horizontal stems have a reddish-brown hue. Brown bark peels away as it ages. Small, thick leaves sit close together along the stems. Each leaf has a firm, leathery feel and glossy surface. New leaves emerge bronze, then turn dark green in summer. Their undersides are paler, and their edges have fine teeth.

Small flower clusters hang from the stems in April and May. The fragrant flowers have fused petals and a bell-like shape. Red buds open into pink and white blooms. Round, purple-black berries follow in June and July. Each berry measures about 0.01 feet [0.003–0.004 metres] across. People can eat the fruit fresh or cook it. Plants For A Future describes the taste as sweet but bland. Birds and mammals also seek out the berries. The plant attracts butterflies and other pollinators.

Choose sun or light shade for this shrub. Full sun gives the best fruit crop. It needs acid soil that drains well yet holds moisture. Sandy soil or light loam with organic matter suits it. Plants For A Future gives a preferred pH of 4.5–6. Lime can cause chlorosis, leaving the foliage short of green colour. Shelter from strong winds helps meet its growing needs. Avoid disturbing the roots when placing plants in their final spot.

Its evergreen cover suits coastal gardens and groundcover planting. NC State rates maintenance as low and notes drought resistance. It lists USDA zones 6–9; Oregon State gives zone 7. Plants For A Future advises milder British sites. Cold sites may limit flowering there. NC State reports no specific pest or disease problems. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards or medicinal uses.