Growth Rate of the Japanese Blueberry Tree

Growth Rate

• The Japanese blueberry (Elaeocarpus decipens) has a moderate growth rate which, according to the Arbor Day Foundation, is a tree that grows between 13 and 24 inches annually. It achieves a mature height of 30 to 40 feet with a similar spread, meaning that the tree requires between 15 and 25 years to reach its full growth potential. It boasts showy, urn-shaped white flowers that bloom in the spring.

Hardiness Zones

• The Japanese blueberry will claim its ideal growth rate when planted in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8b through 10b, an area that encompasses the warmer, sub-tropical and tropical locales of the country. Gardeners who attempt to force the tree to grow in colder, northern climates will likely see sluggish health from the specimen. Even in zone 8, the tips of the Japanese blueberry are likely to be killed by late summer frosts.

Soil

• This evergreen specimen demands full sunshine or partial shade in order to enjoy full vitality. Gardeners may be concerned about the propensity of leaves within the inner foliage of the tree to turn red or orange and drop away; this is a normal part of the aging of the tree. As the tree ages, it develops an open canopy that is distinctly different from the tendency of young Japanese blueberry trees to grow in a more upright, rigid manner.

Soil

• The tree is tolerant of neutral to slightly alkaline soils but will develop chlorosis -- a yellowing of the leaves due to iron deficiency -- in soil with a high pH level. This lack of iron will diminish the tree's ability to achieve its full growth rate. The earth should be rich and full of moisture, while also being well-drained. The cultivar MonProud, the dwarf Japanese blueberry tree, is a smaller version of the tree and typically grows to between 6 and 10 feet in height.