Also known as Small Black Blueberry · Small Cluster Blueberry · Southern Blueberry
Vaccinium tenellum, the Southern Dwarf Blueberry, is a low-growing shrub native to the southeastern United States, producing small, tart berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best fruit production.
Keep soil consistently moist
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogging.
Acidic, well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures, but thrives in moderate climates. Protect from extreme heat.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Acid-loving plants
50% intensity
Use a balanced, acidic fertilizer in spring and early summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Southern Dwarf Blueberry prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
During dry spells, increase watering frequency to maintain optimal moisture levels for healthy growth and fruit production.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Aim to maintain an open structure, allowing for good air circulation and light penetration.
Older, less productive stems can also be removed to encourage new fruiting wood.
Propagation is typically done through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a moist, well-draining, acidic medium.
Alternatively, layering can be employed by bending a low-growing branch to the soil surface and covering it with soil until roots form.
Repot Southern Dwarf Blueberry every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining, acidic potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, pine bark, and perlite.
Repot in early spring before the start of active growth to minimize transplant shock.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Southern Dwarf Blueberry (Vaccinium tenellum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Vaccinium |
| Species | Vaccinium tenellum |
Similar in genus Vaccinium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
