Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Darrow')

Overview

Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’, commonly known as highbush blueberry, is an esteemed deciduous shrub valued both ornamentally and for its substantial fruit yield. Developed with the goal of producing large, flavorful berries, this cultivar is a highlight for home orchards. Its upright, dense habit provides excellent structure in the landscape throughout the growing season.

This productive variety transitions beautifully through the seasons, offering pendulous, urn-shaped flowers in spring, glossy green foliage in summer that deepens in coloration, and brilliant coppery red fall color. As a shrub that matures between 4 to 6 feet tall, the highbush blueberry contributes significant texture and seasonal interest. Gardeners seeking reliable summer harvests and excellent winter hardiness up to Zone 8 will find Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ worthwhile.

The berries produced by ‘Darrow’ are notably large, sweet to slightly tart, and darkly colored, ripening in mid to late summer. While these shrubs are self-fertile, planting ‘Darrow’ near another compatible blueberry variety dramatically increases both the size and quantity of these edible fruits. Planning for cross-pollination and staggered bloom times is key to maximizing your blueberry harvest.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Ericaceae
• Plant Type: Fruit
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 4-6 ft
  • Spread: 4-6 ft
• Bloom Time: May
• Bloom Description: White with pink overtones
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium to wet
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

Successful cultivation of Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ hinges primarily on soil chemistry and consistent moisture management. Plant ideally during the dormant season in early spring or fall. The most critical requirement is acidic soil, targeting a pH range between 4.8 and 5.2, enriched with ample organic matter. Ensure the location receives full sun to part shade, as insufficient light will reduce flowering and fruiting.

Due to their shallow, fibrous root structure, blueberries require soil that is medium to wet but always well-drained; soggy conditions lead to root rot. Applying a thick layer of organic mulch helps conserve this essential moisture and moderates soil temperature. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain consistent soil dampness near the surface.

To ensure the best yields, plan to plant at least two different highbush blueberry cultivars to facilitate cross-pollination. For new plantings, it is beneficial to pinch off all flowers in the first year and the subsequent year to direct energy toward root and shoot establishment rather than fruit production. Pruning should commence in late winter, beginning in the third year, removing older, less productive wood to encourage vigorous new growth.

Landscape Uses

The highbush blueberry is highly versatile, serving roles beyond simple fruit production. Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ works exceptionally well when utilized as a formal or informal hedge, providing a densely fruiting screen that offers edible rewards. Its attractive form and excellent fall color also make it suitable for shrub borders.

For optimal results, pair ‘Darrow’ with companion plants sharing its affinity for acidic soil, such as rhododendrons and azaleas. These groupings create richly textured woodland or native plant garden spaces. If planting for fruit, ensure adequate space, as the mature spread reaches 4 to 6 feet wide, allowing room for air circulation crucial for disease prevention.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Fruit Qualities

• Showy
• Edible

Noteworthy Characteristics

Vaccinium corymbosum, commonly known as highbush blueberry, is an upright, deciduous shrub native to eastern North America where it typically grows in moist woods, bogs, swamps and low areas. ‘Darrow’ specifically was introduced to achieve larger fruit with improved flavor, producing very large, sweet to tart berries in mid to late summer, distinguished by clusters of red buds opening to white flowers tinged with pink. Foliage turns striking shades of coppery red or red in the fall, complementing the purple-red twigs visible in winter.

Tolerances

Potential Problems

Birds represent a primary threat to your ripening harvest; netting the plants as the berries begin to develop color is often necessary to protect the sweet fruit. Soil health is paramount; chlorosis (yellowing leaves) is a common sign that the highbush blueberry is suffering from soil pH that is too high (alkaline).

While less frequent, various diseases can impact productivity, including stem blight, root rot, anthracnose, cane cankers, mildew, and botrytis. Infestations by pests like the blueberry maggot, cherry fruit worm, and spotted wing drosophila may also occur, sometimes causing berries to shrivel and drop due to the fungal disease mummy berry.

Management should involve preventative cultural practices, such as maintaining correct soil pH and ensuring good air circulation through timely pruning. If pest pressure is high, physical barriers like netting are often the most effective control method for protecting the edible crop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Highbush blueberry suitable for?

Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8.

How large does Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ grow?

This shrub typically reaches a mature height between 4 to 6 feet tall, with a similar spread of 4 to 6 feet wide.

When does Highbush blueberry bloom?

The bloom time is typically in May, featuring characteristic urn-shaped flowers described as white with pink overtones.

What sun exposure does Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ need?

This highbush blueberry variety performs best in locations receiving full sun to light part shade.

Conclusion

For gardeners desiring both striking ornamental qualities—from spring blooms to vivid fall foliage—and a reliable source of delicious, large fruit, Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ is an excellent choice. This specific highbush blueberry cultivar offers substantial rewards for meeting its unique, acidic soil needs. Before planting, confirm your soil pH is within the optimal 4.8 to 5.2 range to ensure the health and productivity of your new shrubs.

Companion Planting Guide

Selecting appropriate companions ensures your Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ thrives by sharing compatible soil needs. The best partners for this highbush blueberry are other acid-loving plants. Grouping it with azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias provides a cohesive, aesthetically pleasing display while simplifying soil amendment efforts, as all these groups demand low soil pH.

Consider adding acidic soil groundcovers or mulch materials, such as pine needles, around the base of the blueberry. This helps maintain the consistently moist, cool conditions that the shallow, fibrous roots require. Avoid planting near shallow-rooted, high-pH lovers like lavender or sedum, as their soil demands conflict directly with the needs of the highbush blueberry.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring is crucial for initiating growth; ensure soil pH is checked and adjust if necessary before the active growing season begins. Immediately after bloom ends in late spring/early summer, apply a layer of organic mulch, being careful to keep it away from the main crown of the plant.

Summer is maturation phase; monitor water needs closely, especially during fruit ripening, as constant moisture is vital, though drainage must remain excellent. If you wish to extend the harvest past the mid-to-late summer ripening time of ‘Darrow’, consider planting early-season varieties nearby.

Late winter, before new growth appears, is the prime time for pruning. Begin pruning canes in the third year by removing older, thicker wood to encourage productive new shoots. This maintenance is necessary to keep your Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Darrow’ productive and healthy for years to come.