Commercial Blueberry Varieties

Rabbiteyes

• Rabbiteye blueberries are the main variety of commercial blueberry that are grown naturally. They are native to the Southeastern United States. They mainly grow in southern states from Texas to Florida, and in eastern states as far north as Virginia. However, rabbiteyes are also grown in some parts of the west, such as California and Oregon. Rabbiteye blueberries have numerous tiny seeds inside each berry, which distinguish this variety from huckleberries.

Northern Highbush

• Northern highbush blueberries are commercial blueberries that have been developed by geneticists. They are also known as "high-chill" blueberries, since they are able to grow in the colder climates of the northern United States, particularly in the northeastern states. Northern high bush blueberries ripen earlier than rabbiteye blueberries, thereby extending the marketing season for blueberries. Sellers of this variety benefit from premium prices, since eastern blueberries are not yet available. Northern highbush blueberries are the most popular variety globally.

Southern Highbush

• Southern highbush blueberries are a variety genetically engineered for growth in the warmer regions of the South. This variety is also known as the "low-chill" blueberry variety. Southern highbush blueberries are ideal for regions in which the climate chills (reaches temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit) less than 1,000 hours a year. Southern highbush blueberries are not self-fertile, meaning that they cross pollinate with other varieties to grow.

Rabbiteyes vs. Highbush Varieties

• Rabbiteyes, unlike high bush varieties, grow in upland soil types. Rabbiteye blueberries are not as sensitive to soil acidity as highbush varieties. Rabbiteyes resist heat and drought far better than genetically engineered high bush varieties. Rabbiteyes tend to be firmer and have thicker skin than highbush varieties, and they also have a longer post-harvest shelf life than highbush varieties.