Cistus Nursery
*RETAIL - Vaccinium ovatum 'Huckleberry Hill'
*RETAIL - Vaccinium ovatum 'Huckleberry Hill'
A Cistus introduction, our collection of this western native, evergreen huckleberry, a form to only about 30" tall with predominantly upright branches and round, rather congested leaves, the new foliage tinted orange especially when young. The late winter / early spring flowers are a light pink followed by purplish-black fruit that tastes ... well ... ok. Good in the native or dry garden in full sun near the coast or as understory with larger shrubs and trees inland. Prefers a bit of mulch on the soil but surprisingly good in sterile places, unlike many of its kin. Summer drought tolerant, certainly, but doesn't mind the occasional summer water. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7.
EVERGREEN HUCKLEBERRY
Ericaceae
*THESE SIZES ONLY AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN OUR RETAIL NURSERY
Planting Recommendations
Planting Recommendations
Under most conditions, planting directly into the garden is best. Keep in mind, that in our care, plants have been protected from intense sunlight and drying winds and would therefore require sheltered transition time in order to acclimate to such conditions in your garden.
All plants going into containers (rather than in the ground) should be potted immediately in well-drained potting mix and watered well to ensure the soil is fully moistened with no air pockets. Succulent plants abide by different rules (**see below).
Plants held for later planting are best stored in a cool greenhouse or a well-lit garage or basement, rather than in your house where conditions are likely too warm and dry.
Those plants needing time to acclimate can be set out in pots and provided some shade and shelter for the first week to allow for a successful transition.
**For cacti and other succulents, we recommend using a soil mix of less than 30% organic matter, preferably a 2-1 blend of cactus/succulent potting soil and pumice, perlite or lava rock. These plants are sensitive to prolonged heavy moisture, especially in cool/winter conditions. Keep this in mind when watering them for the first time. It is better to leave them dry in lower temperatures.