Vaccinium vitis-idaea Fireballs ('Lirome'PBR) (F)
cowberry [Fireballs]
A semi-evergreen shrub reaches around 60cm tall. It has deep green leaves and in spring, clusters of small white flowers . These develop into many bright red berries which are highly ornamental although also edible once cooked with sugar.
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Red Pink | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Spreading branched, 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
Trade
- Horticultural Group
- This genus produces fruit, but not necessarily edible fruit
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained acidic soil. Choose a sheltered site in full sun or light shade in the north, light shade in the south.
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Patio and container plants
- Edible fruit
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, root rot and chlorosis due to iron and manganese deficiency; see nutrient deficiencies
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.