Blueberry Reka

An excellent patio blueberry, Vaccinium corymbosum Sunshine Blue is an exceptional semi-evergreen variety that combines high fruit productivity with striking ornamental appeal. In late Spring, its compact frame is smothered in a profusion of delicate, bright pink, bell-shaped flowers that transition into heavy crops of sweet, tangy, medium-to-large blueberries through mid-to-late Summer. Unlike traditional highbush blueberries that can prove finicky, 'Sunshine Blue' is remarkably versatile, exhibiting higher tolerance for neutral soils and possessing a very low chill requirement (around 150 hours). Its neat habit, silver-blue foliage, and vibrant autumn tones make it an ideal candidate for container growing, edible landscaping, and small garden spaces.

Site: Tolerates some exposure
Soil: Light, moist, well-drained, acid soil (4.5-5.5) Performs well in containers using ericaceous compost; more tolerant of slightly higher pH levels than most varieties
Position: Best in full sun; tolerates partial shade
Pick: July-August 
Keep: Up to 10 days when refrigerated 
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Pollination: Self-fertile, but crops better with a different blueberry cultivar
Uses: Eating fresh, cooking, preserving, freezing

Image by Michele Dorsey Walfred cropped, and licensed under CC BY 2.0