rabbiteye

Rabbiteye refers to a group of blueberry cultivars, primarily Vaccinium ashei, that are adapted to warm, humid climates of the southeastern United States. The group includes several cultivars selected for late-season fruiting and large berries. Rabbiteye plants are deciduous shrubs that typically reach 1.5–3 meters in cultivation, with upright to arching canes. Leaves are oval, 2–5 centimeters long, and may turn red or purple in autumn in colder climates. Flowers are pale pink to white and appear in clusters along the shoots. Fruit develops in late spring to early summer; berries are blue with a whitish bloom, usually larger than many other blueberries, and have a firm texture.

Rabbiteye blueberries prefer sunny sites with well-drained, acidic soil (pH about 4.5–5.5). They tolerate heat and humidity better than many northern blueberry types, making them popular in the southeastern United States and other warm regions. They require regular irrigation and benefit from organic mulches. In cultivation, pruning focuses on removing older wood to stimulate new fruiting growth. They generally have lower chilling requirements than northern highbush varieties, allowing fruit production in milder winters.

Uses and cultivation notes: the berries are consumed fresh, frozen, or processed into jams, pies, and desserts. They also support commercial blueberry production in suitable climates. Pests and diseases compatible with blueberries—such as mummy berry, Botryosphaeria canker, and bird predation—pose occasional challenges, though many cultivars show strong vigor and disease resistance. Rabbiteye varieties are valued for reliable fruit production in warm areas and for their ability to yield sizable berries.