How to Identify Blueberry Varieties

Identify lowbush blueberry varieties growing in both wild locales and in formal plantings. Lowbush blueberries stay compact and low to the ground -- generally they're no more than 12 inches in height. The foliage of lowbush blueberry plants is a medium green color with narrow, pointed leaves. Lowbush blueberry varieties possess a stronger hardiness to cold than other blueberry types, making them more suitable for growing in colder regions. Lowbush blueberries grow and spread by underground runners, forming a thick growth along the soil. Lowbush blueberries growing in the wild produce blueberries every growing season. Some commercial growers producing lowbush blueberries configure fields to produce every other year by clearing the field after harvesting it.

Distinguish highbush blueberry varieties by their physical appearance. Contrasting sharply to lowbush varieties, highbush blueberries may reach heights of up to 10 feet. Highbush blueberries grow in sunny areas, both in the wilderness and in designated areas. The foliage of highbush blueberries is a medium green color, with wide leaves coming to pointed ends. Highbush varieties usually provide mature blueberries in early summer. These cultivars possess less cold hardiness but more ability to withstand hot growing conditions.

Confirm rabbiteye blueberry varieties by their growing habits and physical appearance. Rabbiteye blueberries grow energetically, possibly becoming as tall as 20 feet. Rabbiteye blueberry varieties possess little cold hardiness but strong tolerance for hot growing conditions, making them a suitable choice for gardeners growing blueberries in warm regions. The name "rabbiteye" comes from the similarity between the blossom appearance and rabbit eyes. Rabbiteye foliage looks similar to highbush foliage, but the rabbiteye leaves possess a waxy coating that helps make the plants more drought tolerant. Rabbiteye blueberries bloom earlier than highbush blueberries; however, the fruits of rabbiteyes mature later. Rabbiteye blueberries are sweeter but smaller than highbush blueberries.