blueberries

Blueberries are deciduous woody shrubs in the genus Vaccinium, most commonly Vaccinium corymbosum (highbush blueberry). They produce small, sweet berries that range from blue to blue-purple and are widely cultivated for fresh consumption and processing. Wild species such as Vaccinium angustifolium (lowbush blueberry) also produce edible fruit. Native to North America, blueberries are now grown in temperate regions around the world.

The shrubs typically reach 1.5 to 4 meters in height for highbush varieties and have slender stems with oval leaves. Flowers are white to pinkish and bell-shaped, appearing in spring and pollinated mainly by bees. The fruit is a spherical to ellipsoid berry with a waxy bloom, about 5 to 16 millimeters in diameter.

Cultivation requires acidic, well-drained soil with a pH roughly 4.5 to 5.5, full sun, and regular moisture. Mulching helps preserve acidity and moisture. Some cultivars are self-fertile, but cross-pollination by bees improves yield and fruit size. Blueberries are long-lived perennials; commercial production relies on irrigation, pest management, and, in some regions, netting to protect fruit.

Nutritionally, blueberries provide fiber, vitamin C and K1, manganese, and flavonoids such as anthocyanins, contributing to antioxidant activity. They have a relatively low glycemic impact. Fresh berries are enjoyed worldwide, and they are also frozen, dried, juiced, or processed into jams, sauces, and desserts. Major producers include the United States, Canada, Chile, and several European countries.