Vaccinium japonicum

Vaccinium japonicum is a small shrub in the heath family, Ericaceae. Kew lists its native range as Japan and South Korea. Plants For A Future gives a wider range across temperate Asia. That account includes parts of China, Taiwan, and Sakhalin. In Japan, it grows in woods on hills and mountains. These woodland sites help explain its preference for moist, acid soil.

This deciduous shrub reaches about 2.3 feet (0.7 metres) in height. It loses its leaves for part of the year. Its low size suits the edge of a woodland garden. It can also grow in areas with dappled shade. The supplied species account gives no mature width. It also provides no details of leaf shape or bark. The RHS page describes the genus rather than those species traits.

Flowers appear in July, according to Plants For A Future. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects carry pollen between the flowers. The seeds ripen from September through October. The fruit measures about 0.02 feet (0.006 metres) across. It has a sharp taste and can be eaten fresh. Cooking offers another way to use the fruit. Plants For A Future gives its food value two out of five.

Grow this shrub in moist soil that drains well. Sandy or loamy ground can meet its needs. Leaf mould can help provide the rich soil it prefers. Keep the soil free of lime and strongly acidic. The stated preferred pH range is 4.5 to 6. Lime can cause chlorosis, which makes the leaves turn yellow. Full sun and light shade both suit it. A sunny spot gives better fruit crops. Shelter the plant from strong winds, and avoid disturbing its roots. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 5–9.

Plants For A Future reports no known hazards for this species. That statement does not establish safety for every person or pet. The same source lists no known medicinal or other uses. Its clearest documented uses are edible fruit and woodland planting. Seed, layering, and half-ripe cuttings offer ways to raise plants. The source describes cuttings as slow and difficult. It does not flag this shrub as a weed.