Vaccinium corymbosum 'Patriot' (F)

RHS Plant Profile
blueberry 'Patriot'

Synonyms

Vaccinium 'Patriot'

Plants for pollinators
Fruit Edible Shrubs

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

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–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 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 for further advice

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