A low-chill, heat-tolerant blueberry suited to warmer gardens, with white spring bells and fiery autumn foliage. Plant two varieties for the heaviest crop in acidic soil.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 2 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Rabbiteye Blueberry
Botanically, Vaccinium ashei is a moderate-growing shrub in the Ericaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage.
Where to grow Rabbiteye Blueberry
Rabbiteye Blueberry suits warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Rabbiteye Blueberry does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 90 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Rabbiteye Blueberry prefers consistently moist soil. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Rabbiteye Blueberry in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Rabbiteye Blueberry in the garden
Rabbiteye Blueberry earns its place for edible harvests, pots and courtyard containers and a fast screen or informal hedge. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Rabbiteye Blueberry with plants that share its preference for consistently moist soil and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Rabbiteye Blueberry
Plant Sale lists Rabbiteye Blueberry as potted plants. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
