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Fruit EdibleShrubs

Vaccinium floribundum

mortiña

A rare and highly attractive, compact, evergreen shrub with rich, bronze-red, young foliage that turns a dark green later in the year. Clusters of drooping rose pink-white flowers appear in early summer and are followed by red, edible fruits

Other common names
mortitia
Synonyms
Vaccinium mortinia

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Bronze Red
Summer Pink White Green
Autumn Green Red
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus

Vaccinium can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs or small trees, with simple leaves and small, bell- or urn-shaped flowers followed by juicy, sometimes edible berries

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Plant in a sheltered site in well-drained, moisture-retentive, acidic soil, (pH 4.5-5.5) in sun or part shade. Alternatively grow in containers or raised beds filled with peat-free, ericaceous compost . Pot grown plants benefit from winter protection. For optimal pollination and yield plant three different cultivars. For further details see blueberry cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by taking softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Edible fruit
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

More mature plants benefit from regular pruning. See blueberry pruning

Pests

May be susceptible to vine weevil larvae damage especially if container grown. Protect ripening fruit with netting from birds

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, root rot and chlorosis due to iron and manganese deficiency; see nutrient deficiencies

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