sparkleberry

Plant Type

Small Tree/Large Shrub (10-25 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

8-15 ft. tall
4-10 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil, Direct Afternoon Sun

Propagation

By seed, By cutting

Plant Propagation Notes

Cuttings from softwood is the primary propagation method. Hardwood cuttings of unbranched shoots from previous seasons may also root.

Plant Planting Notes

Provide up to 10 ft spacing.

Plants/Diseases

No significant disease or pest issues.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae, Fruit/seeds for birds

Leaves

Leaves alterante, elliptical to ovate with entire margins; up to 3 inches with a glossy or leathery surface.

Flowers

White with fused petals to form a bell shape. Flowers on raceme.

Fruit

Berries turn purple to black.

Bark

Branches and twigs are gray and smooth. Older stems and trunk is brown to red and exfoliating in long vertical strips.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

Edibility

Fruits are edible, but not described as palatable like other species of Vaccinium.

USDA Hardiness Zones

7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Dry, Medium

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Tolerates calcareous soils, unlike other Vaccinium species. Prefers woodlands, bluffs, or cliffs with xeric sandy or rocky soils.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common throughout South Carolina