Sparkleberry

Vaccinium arboreum

Size: 3 Gallon Availability

Tree
Max size: 25′ tall x 15′ wide
Average size: 15′ tall x 10′ wide

Usually Moist, Moist to Dry, Very Dry
Sand
Sun, Part Shade
Tolerant of Low Levels of Salt Spray

This large shrub or small tree is deciduous and has a red fall color. It blooms in the spring with an abundance of small white flowers. It produces edible berries, which ripen in late summer to early fall, that have a mild tang and a slight grit. The berries can stay on the tree well into early winter and provide a valuable source of antioxidants. They are good when used for jams and pies. It has an interesting bark and form, making it a great specimen tree. It attracts a variety of pollinators and is especially important for native bee species. It is a larval host for striped hairstreak (Satyrium liparops)

Decoctions of the leaves and bark of the roots are used to treat sore throat and diarrhea.