Varieties of Blueberry Bushes

Emerald

• This blueberry variety is a patent of the University of Florida and an exception among highbush blueberry bushes because it thrives in hot climates. In fact, you can find it throughout the north-central part of Florida. The Emerald grows upright and produces an early and abundant crop, blooming in mid-February with berries ripening by the second week in May.

Berkeley

• According to the Missouri State University Extension Service, the Berkeley is a high-yielding, hardy blueberry bush that grows in the Midwest. This is an upright highbush plant with a spreading habit. It produces light-blue berries that ripen in mid-season to firm fruits with large stem scars.

Powderblue

• According to the University of Florida, rabbiteye blueberry bushes, such as Powderblue, are easier to cultivate than highbush ones. They tolerate dry conditions and are less likely to suffer root rot. The Powderblue variety is a late bloomer, setting fruit in mid to late season.

Polaris

• This half-high variety produces abundant crops, but it needs a pollinator to make its aluminum-blue fruit. The Polaris is also a hardy bush that grows to 4 feet in an arching shape. The berries ripen early in the season.

Wild Blueberry

• Native to North America, wild blueberries spread naturally through their underground rhizomes instead of being cultivated. For that reason, you may find several varieties growing in the same field. According to Wild Blueberries.com, this lowbush type of berry also has more antioxidant power, is more flavorful and more likely to hold its shape and color throughout baking than cultivated varieties.