Vaccinium 'Brigitta' (F)

RHS Plant Profile
blueberry 'Brigitta'

Synonyms

Vaccinium corymbosum 'Brigitta Blue'
Vaccinium corymbosum 'Brigitta'

Fruit Edible Shrubs

An upright, deciduous shrub with leaves that turn shades of orange and red in autumn. White spring flowers are followed in late summer and early autumn by clusters of mid to light blue edible fruits with a firm texture that makes them ideal for freezing

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand, Clay

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
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
Horticultural Group
This genus produces fruit, but not necessarily edible fruit

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 and How to grow your own blueberries

Propagation

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

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Edible fruit
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

More mature plants benefit from regular pruning, see blueberry pruning

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