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Fruit EdibleShrubs

Vaccinium corymbosum 'Patriot' (F)
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

blueberry 'Patriot'

'Patriot' is a vigorous, deciduous shrub to 2m tall, with small, oval leaves turning red in autumn.Clusters of small, waxy,creamy-white flowers are followed bywell-flavoured, blue-black fruits ripening in mid- to late summer

Synonyms
Vaccinium 'Patriot'

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Cream White Green
Summer Cream White Green Black Blue
Autumn Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Ericaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
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

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Plant in a sheltered site in moisture-retentive, acidic soil, (pH 4.5-5.5) in sun or part shade. This cultivar is very hardy and more tolerant of colder locations and heavy soils than others. Alternatively grow in containers or raised beds filled with ericaceous compost. For optimal pollination and yield plant three different cultivars. See blueberry cultivation

Propagation

Take 10-15cm softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Edible fruit
Pruning

More mature plants benefit from regular pruning, see pruning blueberries

Pests

May be susceptible to vine weevil, especially if container grown

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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